Great going, this is one car almost everyone wants to be in it atleast once. You talk about sturdiness and there is no discussion that goes without mentioning "Ambassador" atleast a couple of times. This is my dad's favorite car too.
I fully agree to your taste, please dont add any alloys instead try to bring the same old classic steel rim with chrome cap looks. The colour you have chosen is decent & fresh.
I am waiting for more pics of your car. Keep posting atleast one picture a day (every small progress in detail). ALL THE BEST!