My previous (first) airplane was an M5-210. I bought it as a basket case naively thinking I'd restore it over a year or so. It ended up taking me six years. Life, job changes, move, etc got in the way. I did the majority of the work myself under A&P supervision, including the fabric and paint. I enjoyed it and learned a ton, but certainly could've bought a flying airplane for the same money or less.

The fit and finish was indeed pretty crude, especially the doors. I was able to improve the look and feel somewhat, but I'd still call it a pickup truck. Fun airplane, but certainly not a Beechcraft.