Just wanted to thank everyone for the advice. I have taken some polishing compound to the car it and its comimg along nicely. In addtion I have discovered that the passenger seat has the dreaded seat tilt and have found instructions to (hopefully) fix this, the drivers seat is uncomfortable because of the lack of padding but I can deal with it. Found a window for $50- and a friend is installing it. So that leaves the door panel which I will replace. After polishing off years of dirt and grime it actually doesn't look as bad as I first thought. It runs strong, the sucker is fast and I love it. Additionally, took a look at the records that came with the car, front thrust rods (?), and bushings were replaced 30,000 miles ago as well as the valve cover gasket, oxegyn sensor, front tie rods and the idler arm and center link (?). That owner took excellent care of the car, detailed monthly etc. It was the last two owners that let it go to hell. So anyway, I'm going to fix a few things up , love it and drive it and save up for a no rust, lower mileage E34. Thanks so much for the advice and the warm welcome to the board!!!