On balance, sounds like a dream ticket, a donor vehicle in decent nick for a couple of hundred net. As you say though, it is not risk free. I'm glad you were able to address the niggles quickly and cost effectively. I have used the google street view trick before.
I have been gathering prices and details off gumtree today, and am getting a better idea of price range and mileage for the 2.2 and 2.8s. I will probably get the doner earlier rather than later so as to drive it and get it fettled before using it for the kit. I am aiming for something in the 50k to 80k range, as I plan to keep the re-modeled car for quite a few years.
My wife thinks it is OK for me to have a fun car, she just doesn't know the whole plan yet. She thought the NG was a waste of time, but softened as the sale value paid for her dental work.
Anyhow, the whole Tribute thing is tremendously exciting, both as a kit development, as well as the fun it has given to all the individuals building them. Long may it last.
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