[FredBMOC]

Duane,
I know of at least one person that has a Backdraft and uses it in the same way you describe: live overseas and have Backdraft as DD when in town and he has no problem with it so it's certainly doable. Regarding insurance, the need to prove that you have another vehicle is only applicable if you are going to get insurance as a classic; for regular insurance there is no such requirement. From personal experience, I think that Backdrafts are very reliable but you do need to schedule preventative maintenance into the equation; these cars are certainly not the same as a Honda. Regarding depreciation, I think you are right in that you will likely lose a lot less money in the long run and will certainly have a lot more fun so I'd say go for it!
Best of luck,