I have a discussion/debate like this with friends all the time. Many of them look at my 72 project and see it only as it is. I look at it and see it only as it will be.
That's not to say I don't often feel the weight of the work ahead, but for me it's the focus that makes the difference. I think that's what makes this group stand out. We don't tend to look at these cars and see rust, metal work, welding, dirt and such. We look at these cars and see shiny paint and gleaming chrome, and hear that throaty growl. I think you've gotta have a bit of a savior complex to want to do this.
That said, I did send our 73 donor to the parts bin in the sky last year, but only after stripping nearly everything that could be of use (and even a few things that couldn't). I actually felt guilty as I watched the crane arm pierce her rotted roof and flip her onto the pile. I thanked her for her contribution, paused for my moment of silence, and pulled away. Always sad to see them go.