Might be a good idea to create an Excel type spreadsheet to list part numbers and associated cost and quantity plus lowest price source link.

It can get really costly for parts to make a car long term reliable enough for long trips.

You might want to consider getting a car with more of a collector value and put your money and time into that.

If my car gets totaled I would not recover much of the money spent for all the new parts I've purchased. Doubtful if I would get even $2000.

Another link detailing fixup info for a 97:

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/diesel-discussion/388124-first-things-do-new-me-1997-e300d.html