"Experience is key."

Very true, but now we have to ask the age old question "how do you get experience if no one will give you a chance?" Here in lies the problem, you can't get the experience unless you jump on it. Careful planning and the proper research will give you an upper hand. I would start on a lesser car, buy a /6 Dart or even a 4 door and go to cutting and welding. Sure ya'll invest some time and money, but better to waste money on a lesser car than waste a car because you screwed it up beyond repair - and it can happen.

Save a good Dart body and someone will buy it for a decent price when you're done.