Like the other posts, I agree rust is the issue to look at most closely. I've had my 71E off the road 2+ years working (slowly) on what I thought was minimal body work and a paint job. If you are inclined to pursue, look under the carpets, check around the window seals, examine the jack struts underneath, tap around on the rocker panels from one end to the other, check underneath the rockers for evidence of clogged drain channels, look behind the headlamps and under the seals of the tail lights, inside the fenders..... well you get the picture. IPD, 800-444-6473, one of the most convenient sources of parts sells a magnetic tool they call "Spot Rot" for $10. If the car is rusty, this would be the best $10 you could spend! If it's turns out to be too rusty, but the seller is motivated like you say, the parts are probably worth more than the whole car. Owning and driving it a while without doing a restoration could give you enough information to either look (and be willing to pay for) a good one, use it for a parts car, get it out of your system, etc.... If you get excited about it, there is a community of resources here and other places on the 1800. No doubt you would have great company....