[jrdavid68]

I have wanted a 356 for several years now. More than that, I want one restored by a particular mechanic in the SF Bay area. I know that if he restored the car, everything is perfect down to the correct nut and bolt that should be on the car.

I now have the opportunity to buy a '64 coupe that he has restored. The previous owner (RIP) participated in the restoration, but all of his work was done under the mechanic’s close supervision. Everything is as it should be with a purchase like this – a documented w/pictures rotisserie restoration, all matching numbers, fairly recent paint in the original color (a couple minor door dings), even the clock works. The car needs nothing! I even had the opportunity to meet the previous owner on a couple occasions – he was one of the good guys.

In order for me to buy the car, I would need to use my HELOC for most of the purchase. I currently have a balance on the HELOC that I should have paid off by mid 2009. This would definitely extend the payoff for a couple more years.

My wife says, “Just buy the damn car!” (she’s a keeper). However, I’m the one that handles the finances and I am agonizing over buying a 44 year old car, that would only be taken out on sunny weekend days, and having to borrow to do it. On the other hand, if I look back in ten or twenty years, will it be one of those “should’ve, could’ve” scenarios if I don’t buy it?

So, I’m open to opinions for or against.