Yep, if did not work on them myself they would not be so cost effective. Virtually everything on the outside of the engine that is in the engine compartment has been replaced. The fuel system, suspension, steering, body mounts, engine cooling system, A/C system, heat system and on and on. I am about to have the interior re-done. The transmission is updated to a 2004R, the rear end is a limited slip. The paint is shiny and smooth. The good news is I actually enjoy working on my cars. It is just a hobby. When my wife complains that I am never inside I remind her I am just a few steps away. I am not on the golf course or the lake with at a 30 thousand dollar boat. In the long term it is a cheap hobby. That is what I keep telling her.
I have owned the car since 1991. I have put almost 250,000 miles on it so far. Overall cost to drive is very low.