...and there are a lot of other whatzits on these cars (cruise control is just one) that may be expected to go out...and which still present NO great loss.

You have one of the most durable, simple, and interesting cars ever built. The ONLY thing about the vacuum locking system that might present an issue is the trunk release, but you can still open the trunk using the key.

If you have an interior "stinky" from age or moisture, open up a fair sized box of baking soda and leave it under one of the front seats.

Congratulations...you've got something there...and lots of help on this forum to keep it running. Enjoy.