In 1972, a few months before my 16th birthday, I paid either $600 or $800 (I can't remember) for a 1962 MGA. It was worth $250 tops. Needless to say, it needed some work from time to time. I was fortunate to live next door to the best mechanic I've ever met, a Brit who raced sports cars in the 50s and 60s. I learned tons hanging out in his garage.