Build engine first or get project car first?

[Asstragal]

Hey guys. So Im probably still about a year or two out from being able to get a project car. My main question is this: should I start by just getting an engine and building it up and then finding something to drop it in, or should I get the project car first?

Option 1 lets me start sooner, but I run the risk of having to put one brand engine into a different brand car (mopar engine in chevy car, chevy engine in mopar car, etc, which could end up with a really cool combination or sleeper) Option 2 lets me keep car and engine brand the same but makes me wait longer

Part of me just want to get a junkyard block in good enough condition and just slowly build it up,
but the other part of me wants to wait so 1) i can keep brands the same (im not a brand specific guy, i like em all) and 2) I can map it out so I can have a plan for motor/trans/rear end/tires before I start.

What do you guys think, just build up a motor now or wait?

[MikeBrooklyn]

Your biggest pitfall is getting something less than what you really want. Lets say you really want a '32 roadster but a nice 50 Ford happens by. You will never be totally committed to the project and most likely end up as an unfinished project. Set down with the family and talk about the project, what you want and what it will be used for. Once you have defined your goals you can start gathering parts. Do not change direction, it cost money and leads to dead ends. Start now to build a network, go to car shows and research. Good luck.

[AyannaJones]

If you're more into general mechanics, I'd suggest getting the project car first. This way, you can tear it down, understand its design and see what's needed. Plus, there might be a good Hyundai Tucson engine for sale that you can get at a great price. But, if you're into specialized engine work and want to focus on that first, it could also work the other way round. It's a matter of personal preference really.