First Project

Welcome from Central KY! When I was a SR in HS, my 10 plan was a 9 second Gen II Barracuda. I've never had a hot rod for more than six months at a stretch, and never a running Barracuda. Life will most certainly interfere with your plans.
My suggestion would be to get her running, even though she won't be everything you want.
Once you have her running, it'll be easier to keep your eye on the prize. Build her so you can improve on her, not have to totally rebuild her to accomplish your goals.