Pimp my Jetta?!

[jetta_knight87]

So I've noticed theres some knowledgable people here so I could use some advice.

MY CAR: 1987 Jetta Carat, automatic, 1.8L something engine (i know how specific). Oh and its rebuilt (salvaged and rebuilt in 1996), 168 000km (yes i triple check the odometer readings in the history). Only a few small spots of surface rust and the top coat is chipping on the hood. Brand new battery, brakes and headlights and new higher grade wheels on front. Failed emissions 3 years ago two years in a row but not since (where i live, emissions arent a recquirement). Power locks/windows.
CURRENT PROBLEMS: E-brake is nothing but a stick lying between the front seats. i think its partially detached. Speedometer got stuck (just fixed), something wrong with cold fuel injector ( i have to rev it for about a minute in the morning, otherwise it stalls but then works fine the rest of the day), tape deck cuts out after 2 minutes (unless i push in the cigarette lighter). Seat warmers only work on passenger side and rear left window wont go down
COST ME: 1000.00

The actually frame is in very good condition considering the age and the car is very reliable. it runs very quietly and smoothly, doesnt burn a lot of oil, great on gas. my question is how much should i put into this car? i was told that it could be a worthy vintage car if its kept up and the rust doesnt progress cause the Carat was a special edition luxury trim. I actually only expected to buy a car so i can drive it to shit, but since it's turned out to be an alright find, the VW mechanic said it would be worthy putting some money into it and get it fixed up real nice. is he just saying this for the money? How much more life can one really get out of a 20 year old car thats been REBUILT?! How much should be my limit? Thanks for any opinions

[jammyjim]

My best advice, is to only spend what the car is worth to you. If you are enthusiastic about this car, do whatever makes you happy. If your concerned about getting back what you put into it, your more than likely going to get burned. The Kelley Bluebook value is only about 2300 for the car in excelent condition. You might be able to get more if you were to find the right buyer.

[jetta_knight87]

Thank-you. that's actually pretty logical advice. I dont plan on selling this car (but then again, you never know what comes up). I plan on having this car until it doesnt want to work anymore. I absolutely adore it. It's also my first car, and funny enough the exact car I wanted (ive always LOVED old VWs). My concern isnt so much making the car worth more, it's keeping it alive. I suppose i'll drive it til the engine fails, because that would prolly not be worth fixing (or would it be?).

[jammyjim]

Drive it nice and change the oil regularly, and that engine should last a long time. My first jetta was an 89 gl. It had 200,000 miles on it and I bought it for 100 bucks. The valves clacked like a locamotive. I spent 64 bucks on some new lifters and drove the car 85,000 miles with just regular oil changes. I sold it to a guy at work who lived in TJ. He drove it for 3 more years and only had to change the oil pump. I'm willing to bet that someone is still cruising around Mexico in it to this day.

[bryant.barber]

get rid of it and buy a five speed. and yes these things last a long time. especially the german built cars

[jettadish]

do what this guy did, I mean me.
http://bitstream.soundandvisionmag.com/blog/diy/