HI:
I would go back to the old AMT vintage series kits..... There are still a ton of them out there and if you try for a reissue you can keep the price pretty low.
My first pick would be the old AMT 40 Ford Coupe..... it is a very simple build but has lots of speed parts to customize it...(2 engines....slicks, a blower etc etc)
It is an older vintage subject and with a bit of work builds up very nicely..... even the veterans on this board have turned out great builds but it still is good for the novice....
The downside is probably going to be the flash on most of the reissues..... it may be significant but nothing that you can't overcome.....
You may have to search the internet to find one..... you don't need to get a vintage trophy series kit from 1960 as those are serious collectors items and will be expensive...
Try Ebay and you will literally see tons and tons of these kits ranging from $10-$12 to way over $30..... stay in the $10-$12 range....there are just too many versions out there to justify some of the stupid crazy prices.... the first three I saw were $11....$12....and $14 respectively...
The 40 Ford panel was just re-released by Round-2 and it is nice as well but I prefer the Coupe....there was also a sedan as well....
Another good bet is the Monogram 37 Ford street rod.... again good detail parts, simple construction and an older vintage subject.....best thing here is it is still very readily available at Hobby Town, Hobby Lobby etc.... $16 at my local Hobby Town.... same for the 32 roadster....
Good luck with this!!!
Regards
Bill (Duntov)