Buy a beater car is the best way to protect it. Get a old s-10 or ranger with four wheel drive...or a new WRX. Driving wise in my 86 I just tossed in some sand bags (160 lbs worth) and I would suggest getting something better then bald cooper Cobras for the rear atleast. Other then that there isnt much you can do but learn how to drive in it. Take you time...anything can be driven in any weather if you go slow enough and know the car.