Another area to explore is 1/32 or 1/35 die-cast models. They can be torn apart and rebuit/detailed as needed. I have done it a few times as well.
For the above Suburban idea, I used a die-cast Cadillac Escalade, totally rebuilt into a Suburban for my Iraq VIP Protective Detail dio.
I totally stripped it down and started over with it.
More here: Iraq VIP Protective Detail Dio
I did the same with a die-cast Chevy Blazer to make an M1009 CUCV.
More here: M1009 CUCV Build - Armor/AFV / Modern - KitMaker Network