Have you considered restoring the early 70s era Continental (I'm assuming this is what you have)? These were one up on the ubiqutous Varsity(s) and are worth restoring (Paramonts were top of the line and Superiors were one down; the Continental next). A frame builder might be able to straighten the frame. How far away is it from being a restored classic?
Buy a used bike to learn. A few years later buy the new bike you love and don't spare a dime.
Oh, ah, welcome to the forum.