It's good to know you are still searching for the right car.
In order to understand your target $US price and condition here is a comparison transaction:
Is a car like this one what you are thinking about? Below-average cosmetics. Engine starts and runs. Presumably able to pass road safety inspection but the seller did not make such a claim.
Sold for ~$US37K 4 months ago.
5-speed
No frame rust seen in photos
Heater and A/C non-operational
Dents in at least 3 body panels/doors
Unusual hood alignment, distorted front fascia
Cracked binnacle, dashboard, glove box lid, bad headliners
This was your target in a post 7 months ago - any update?I'm in touch with DMC, but they currently only have cars in the 70+ range.
Cosmetics is less important to me as long as it is somewhat mechanically sound.