Choosing donor for '59 Apache build

[rgunlock]

Hi,

This could be a bit painful as I'm new to both this forum (and forums in general) and custom building a truck - I didn't even know to pick a cool truck related name when I registered for this forum.

That said, I bought myself a semi-restored '59 Apache body on a rolling chassis to start my project. I want to build a "mild" 4wd with modern drivetrain, suspension, brakes, etc. but with the look and style of a '59. I don't want to spend a ton of money and I'm not too particular at this point on specific engine, transfer case, rear end, etc. I would like to find a reasonable donor to get me from point 'a' to point 'b' and worry about upgrades later.

I see from going through threads that S-10's seem to be one of the donor's of choice for this type project, but I'm having trouble finding an explanation of why this choice is made.

Specific suggestions, S-10 or otherwise, would be appreciated.