i've done it numerous time. Most recent one was an AU2 Forte that i mocked up like a AU1 XR6 as i really like the bodykit.
I'm a mechanic by trade so the mechanical work was done by me and another auto specialist mate.
I have a good mate that lives in Melbourne near Jolly Rogers wreckers and got me a LHF guard and XR bonnet in the same colour for cheap.
Gumtree and eBay can be your friend for cheap parts. I got the whole bodykit, genuine Ford, for 550. including headlights.
I have an awesome detailer mate as well. He works wonders.
A mate that is a painter, so bodykit was painted cheap.
I bought an AU1 XR wreck for 700 bucks in the Dandy hills. Towed it home. Parted it out. sold bits off it for 1100 bucks AND had the diff, motor and manual conversion to use.
The 3.45 LSD and manual conversion ended up in the Forte. And the Tickford badges lol
Motor i have worried about as my AU, even with 385000kms, still goes well.

Daily driver: AU2. 5 speed. 19" BBS LM. Full exhaust. Lowered. A mix of AU XR leather interior and T series goodies, converted to full power windows. 3.45 LSD. AU1 XR kit with classic spoiler.
Weekend driver: EA SVO - AU motor. Built BTR. SDE 3600 stall. T76 turbo. Locked diff. On E85. approx 425rwkw. 10.8 @ 126mph