Classic/Antique Car Repair: vw superbeetle, square tubes, vw specialist

Question
Hello! I have a 1979 superbeetle convertible. It was parked outside for 4 years..not driven. The bottom is rusted out. There is some rust around the windshield. It will need a new paint job. The headliner also needs to be replaced. It started but will not hold...not sure. It also needs new brakes and cylinders. I figure it will cost between 5000 and 6000. Do you think it's worth it or just let it go. It's such a fun car! I appreciate your help.

Answer
Deborah:

I think the question here is not "is is worth it?", but rather, "can you get it done properly?".

You don't mention if the body outriggers (the big, square tubes that run down the length of the car, under the running boards) are still intact, or if they're gone due to rust. If they're rusted away, it's a huge job to have them replaced or re-fabricated, and this is absolutely essential to the structure of the car. Additionally, the replacement work needs to be done by a specialist. Left undone, or done improperly means that the car will lack structural integrity ( even with a brand new chassis pan!) and will be unsafe to drive. Chances are that the doors won't even stay shut.

So, it goes beyond engine and brakes--before I did either of those relatively simple tasks, I would have the body and pan rebuilt by a competent, experienced VW specialist, even if you have to travel 500 miles to find him.

Good luck with your decision!

--Paul