I'm 18, I bought my first z ($400 of saved up $$$) when I was 14 as a project to have done by the time i got my license. I knew nothing at all about the z car, I'd never even heard of a datsun That car turned out to be more rust and bondo than car. I later (summer before junior year, 16 or so) found another '72 in Pinehurst for $1600 (more savings).
It was awesome, bone stock but awesome lol. I drove it everyday junior year. The summer between junior and senior year I swapped the motor from the first car into the 2nd one because it was built up and I wanted some more power. Well, I got the "While I'm at it" bug and I've almost got it back on the road after a little over a year in hibernation.
Looking back, I've gotten discouraged and thought about selling it a couple of times. But I always knew that if I did, I would regret it. I can't wait to get it back on the road. Even if it isn't anywhere near as nice or fast as most of the cars here, it's mine and I love it.