74-79 as a first car?

[Dagger311]

Hey everyone. Before you shoot me down about gas prices, I'd just like to say my commute is going to be very short, and I'm more than willing to put up with bad mpgs to have such a nice car.

I really, really want a classic muscle car. My biggest worry is reliability and insurance prices. I'm aware everything is going to have high insurance costs at my age. I just have a few questions for any owners.

How do they ride? Pretty nice, or is it like going ten rounds with a bear?

Is insurance too high for it to be feasable on a minimum wage full time job?

What kind of gas mileage can I expect from the small block V8s? I know it won't be as good as some other cars in a similar budget, but...

Anything on safety? I'm not looking for a death trap.

How easy are they to work on?

Speaking of that, are parts plentiful?

How is the aftermarket for them?

Would you reccomend this over a third gen F body? Why or why not?

What about a fourth gen?

Or a Malibu from a similar year range?

Thanks in advance to anyone who helps me out. I understand there are way more practical choices, but I really don't want to be stuck driving a Camry, Altima, or any of the cars like that. I want something different, modifiable, something that will stand out a bit. I also want honest opinions. If you don't think it would be money feasible for me to have one, just tell me, and I'll start looking for other things.

 

[zora]

1. They ride fine assuming the suspension/shocks/springs are in good shape.
2. You have to price out insurance, varies too much across the country.
3. As long as your wear lap and shoulder belts not an issue providing you drive defensively.
4. Easy to work on, no high tech electronics.
5. Lot of aftermarket suppliers.
6. Your choice whether an F body is more your taste.
7. Malibu is good choice also

 

[Dagger311]

Thanks for the answers. As I said, my biggest concerns are reliability and insurance. Would one be able to handle being a daily driver? It'd get driven (On the very high end) roughly 8-10 miles a day, more on weekends.

As for the F bodies, I don't care for their styling in those gens, but if they'd be better for what I need (Short drives to work, weekend drives into Atlanta, going out with friends... Usual teen stuff ), I'd consider one. I really like the Malibu though.

 

[zora]

You havent indicated whether you are in a snow area other than that if in good condition there is no reason why it couldnt be used as a daily driver.