I agree with you both in many respects.
I'll first state that I agree that H-Bodies are not inherently valuable. They were built in reasonably high numbers (for '70s production) and were mainly a cheap alternative to some of the imports that were starting to flood the market. As a result, they have few power options other than power brakes and steering.
On the other hand, someone else's junk is someone else's treasure. In Josh's case that argument appears to hold some water.
Seriously, though... what makes an H-Body something worth restoring is not the monetary value but the preservation of history.
The H-Body has a bad rap because early models had very poor quality. Many cars had engine problems among other issues. Nonetheless, the muscle car market has forgotten a few great makes/models of vehicles; cars like Javelins, Dusters, Mustang IIs, Pintos and of course, H-Bodies.
Thus, I think the allure of restoring an H-Body is something that is unique in the classic car world. I don't think you want to restore a car like that for points because let's be honest...a 110hp gross engine is just plain gutless. But, you choose to restore a H-Body in a spirit of modern-day jest. These cars are unique. Each and every one of them has something special.
Pull your car into a car lot and people flock to them. They aren't common. They aren't even very valuable. But they're special.
I guess through all of my ramblings I'm trying to say that these cars are valuable not for their value but for their "wow" factor. Older people remember these cars as being cheap and disposable but the vast majority of the same will agree that it is very easy to make them "stupid fast." Maybe that's why they're so cool.
I don't know. I know I haven't really said anything at all but I think they're neat. I call my '72 a baby Camaro because no one knows that I'm talking about when I try to explain what it is.
Now, I think
that is cool.
Later,
Colin
'72 Vega with '93 Camaro LT1/M29 T56/12 bolt 3.31. 16" IROCs all around. Sanderson headers into duals with an H-pipe and Flowmasters. It's loud but at least it's faster than your grandma's Buick. pwned.