Volkswagen: gas mileage, vw beetle convertable, wheel bearings

Question
We are considering purchasing a 1972 VW Beetle convertable.  We are counting on using the money we save on gas in our daily commuting to help fund the restoration of the vehical.  I had been told that Beetles get great gas mileage, around 40 or more miles per gallon, but my wife found an article that states that the mileage is closer to 25 miles per gallon, which is what the seller estimated it to be also.  This would not save us any money to put toward the restoration.  What do you estimate the gas mileage to be?  It is not fuel injected...

Answer
the fuel injection models often got a tad bit better mileage, but 40 mpg is doubtful for any beetle.  I cannot estimate gas on your car due to no knowledge of engine condition, brakes, wheel bearings, etc.  If it needs restoring, count on 20-25mpg.  Even if everything was brand new and you leaned the carb(s) out to a point of possible overheating...you would never get 40mpg.  Sorry mark.  
good luck,
shad