Vintage Cars: buying my dream car 1975 vw superbeetle convertible, mid life crisis, car tools

Question
Hi Ron,
I am strongly considering giving in to my mid-life crisis and purchasing a  
'75vw
convertible. Before I totally lose my mind( and w/your help not my wallet) are
there specific areas of concern w/ this year's make and model?
Thanks for your help,
    Kym


Answer
Hello Kym
Anytime you get into a vintage car it is important to realize that you get what you pay for.  For some a great deal on a vintage car may be one that need to be fixed up, for another it may be one that is ready for the road.
More specifics on the car would be helpful, but here are some things to think about.
Do you have the mechanical skills to work on the car?, Tools ( these will be metric)
The car is fairly straightforward mechanically so it is easy to work on. How many miles?
Questions to ask -   Body - original/repainted - any rust.  These cars are prone to rust in the floorboards and jack points
Brakes lines. gas lines - original or replaced?
Engine - miles , has it had regular DOCUMENTED maintenance, has it been rebuilt?
Top - look for tears, tight fitting
If it is a manual, is clutch original?
How does it start - easy hard, any smoke
I could help you a bit more with more information, this is really just some basics
Let me know
and BTW - getting into fun vintage cars is a great way to take care of a mid lfe crisis !!!!!!