Sorry for all the questions, but I was just trying to get everything out there. Like I said this is going to be my first full build, I'm really into suspension so that's all I know. It's going to be a slow one so money is not really factor right now. I really don't want crazy power either. I just want something with good speed that I can toss around and not have to worry about getting smoked by a Prius. 200hp would suit me just fine in one of these light cars. I just shot an email to the owner of the 74 wagon in the craigslist ad below. Those three door wagons are so slick.
http://atlanta.craigslist.org/cto/1177196312.html
EDIT: To answer the other question above I'm really looking for the 70-74 Corolla right now and if I can't find anything then I would move on to the Starlet as a second choice.