How Many Paint Jobs are OK?

[Michael.Lytton@sierra.com]

     I have a 1970 MGB that appears to have been painted twice, one coat on 
     top of another.  Eventually, I hope to paint this car.  I had planned 
     on getting it stripped to bare metal first, but now I'm unsure if I 
     can afford this expense.  What is the wisdom of the net on how many 
     times a car can be painted over and still get good longevity from the 
     finish?
     
     Thanks in advance!
     
     Michael Lytton
     michael.lytton@sierra.com