what should I do? Car purchase decision

[BrassMonkey]

I've currently got a 79 240D - I resurected from the dead. Its pretty beat up and rusty - lots of stuff doesn't work - but lots does. Brakes are new - I just put in a battery and new nozzles. I have motor mounts I just need to get the tools to install.

Flex disc's will arrive this week. Wheel bearings currenlty not good - will re-pack or replace when the castle nut tool arrives.

E-brake not installed.

AC doens't work - central locks dont work - sunroof doesn't open. Very rusty front clip - lots of rust around wheels and trunk -

Run's like new now though and tranny shifts nice and firm.

Anyway - I posed an ad on CL looking for a parts car willing to spend $400. A guy emailed me - He has an 81 240D - daily driver he wants $850

That is more than I really want to spend (or have) but - its a driver for less than what I have in my own rust bucket.

His is even rustier than mine - but he has manual windows and a super cool MB wooden steering wheel. I'm very tempted - But now is really not the time for me to be blowing $850

He said he just installed an alternator, exhaust, brakes & tires. He then decided that it was too slow for Chicago traffic and doesn't want to drive it any longer (especially because the AC doesn't work).

I think its a good deal - but I'm just not sure if I should do it.