That is awesome! It puts many old cars to shame, this is by far the best beater I've seen in a long time.
The one thing I would add, though, would be a stick to hold the hood up. I would think after a while the hinges would wear out, causing the hood to close/not keep itself up. You know, that happens sometimes when things get old... Anyway, I love the open hood, and the fallen leaves on the front below the hood ornament are a nice touch--and with the engine detail-- it's got to stay open. I think a rounded, weathered toothpick would be easy enough, cut up to look like an old broomstick or something and squeezed in to make a hood prop.
Nice work, and I can't wait to see your idea for the base.