If you're into elegance/VIP styling, which is actually better than trying to belong with the "racers" then you're looking at somehow larger sedans.

1. Nissan Cefiro -- good good car in terms of looks and has the VIP-aura.



2. Toyota Crown -- another VIP-looking vehicle

etc.

Since you're going to start from SCRATCH. Might as well take a look at older Benzes. Such as the 190E.



Or you could even resort to older benzes as well. The W123 comes in mind.



These cars though require a lot of work before it runs like a dream. A lot of money is going to be involved, too. But if that's what you're after, then the end product will most likely be worth it.

Why am I not commenting about the BMW 325i E36 ? Because it doesn't suit the "VIP-craze" quite well. :/