Check for rust here, rust there, and rust everywhere. Also check the drive train. These things have U-joints that fall apart just by looking at them crossways. The '63 was the second year the Spit was imported, if I recall, and is a desirable year just for its rarity, but be prepared to spend way more in the restoration than the car will ever be sellable for, and also be prepared for the fact of life that, although these little cars are 'cute as a button,' they are also small, uncomfortable, don't handle that well (compared to even a '63 Ford Falcon), are notoriously unreliable (a gift from Lucas, and British automotive engineering!), have 6 volt positive ground electrical systems (Thanks AGAIN, Lucas!), Whitworth hardware, seem to leak even when it isn't raining, and stop and corner with drum unassisted brakes and 13" skinny wheels about as well as a frenzied cat on a freshly waxed floor. Be also prepared to be laughed at by small children at bus stops and stopped by strangers who say things like, 'I used to own one of those...'
IF you are prepared for all of the above, then go forth with eyes and pocket book open. If I had to do it all over again, I have to honestly say that I would spend my money on a BMW Z3 in decent condition or on a Porsche Speedster or Spyder replicar. Restoring that little car was a passion, and selling it was a pleasure.
