I was recently just convinced to possibly attempt to make it to this rally, in Monterey. I live in Indiana, so essentially the same distance. I've been mulling over the thoughts of trailering a P.O.S. out there, then driving it for the rally, then trailering it home or scrapping it, or something along those lines, since the race starts and ends in the same place.
Ive also been thinking of driving my great MPG 2015 Passat out there, with tools, spares, and everything I may need (including co-drivers) and then picking up a car once we get to Monterey to compete in. I have some family that live in Monterey, so my DD should be easy enough to stash there.
Just some thoughts I had, let me know if you find any good sources for junkers. I contemplated just scouring craigslist, local facebook groups in Monterey, and possibly calling up some junkyards to try and find running cars they may be selling.
Just thought i'd brainstorm a bit on your post, to show my thought processes in comparison to yours.
-Jake
DD's: 2015 VW Passat TSi Wolfsburg, 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee Ltd., 1974 VW Super Beetle
Race Cars: 1996 Ford Escort Wagon