My reliable but ugly brown '82 had some minor vandalism last week. The insurance replaced the windshield (I can see at night again!) and will fix the dented driver's door and hood, but perhaps this is a good opportunity to ask your advice.

Facts: I've had the car about 6 years. It has 334k miles, non-turbo original engine and manual transmission with overdrive. I change oil/filter religiously every 3 months or 5k miles. I replaced all front/rear suspension parts within the last year. I replaced all underhood wiring about 2 years ago. I do all my own maintenance, including replacing engines. I haven't rebuilt an engine since '73, and I promissed myself I'd never rebuild another one (it was a '58 TR3. 'Nuff said.) Paint is still pretty good, if ugly. There are some parking lot dings but no rust. If I keep the car I would sure like to paint it a different color. Interior is good but needs front seat covers. The

Problems: It may need new clutch within next 6 months. Engine still has a lot of pep but has developed blow-by problems. I will get a compression and leak-down test, but I expect the results won't be good.

In other words, it is in good condition for an '82.

So, tell me: Should I rebuild the engine, prep the body myself, get the car painted, and keep it? Or should I sell it and buy a newer 240?

I'd sure like a turbo 240 with sunroof...
--
-- Bruce / '82 244 (323k miles!), '86 745, '87 760Ti, '94 854