That really depends. You can save considerable money buy doing some things yourself. This isnt as hard as people think. Just getting you car to primer could save you a lot of money. As far as throwing in the towel thats giving up wayyy too soon.
I really want to give it a shot but I'm a little passive only because I dont want to open a can of worms. I have been looking everywhere for replacement panels but I guess people hate Mopars. The BIGGEST issue is the roof, its going and going soon. I have thought about the JC auto shop way but my work schedule wont allow it. Would you guys continue the engine build and when the body goes just transfer everything into another body? Because thats what I was thinking. BTW, its a 72 with a 318 and Ive wanted a Dart for over 10 years now.