Definitely will post up pics when I get a chance. Yes I have driven it, cant really notice anything since I'm not making any serious power.. The front end looks like it was hit straight on, over on the driver side. The previous "repair" is at the front, behind the passenger strut tower, where the front end meets the firewall. The seam looks like it has been re welded. Also the left rail that comes up from the bottom to the core support look molested, the seam definitely isn't factory anymore.
Thanks for sharing. I've given those things a lot of consideration and it seems money and time are always the question. I'm no welder and I don't plan on learning cause I don't have the time to practice. I rather it be done right by a professional with experience. Shells are always on craigslist in my area but good ones are rare to come by. Yeah, Cali makes you pay for non-operational vehicles. Sucks, but i'm in no rush.
Appreciate the responses guys. Its always hard to answer something like this cause it totally depends on me. I am not looking for you guys to answer this question for me. I'm just looking for some insight from anyone who's been in the same position.
thanks again