I need to replace a quarter panel. It was quoted at $1000-1200. My mom (who is upfronting the money, I'm paying her back as I can) doesn't like spending that much on an 18 year old, 188k miles car. Should I just keep driving the e34 I have now until I can find a different one without as many miles/problems/rust, or just do the body work, replace the clutch and flywheel, and do other things as I can afford them?

Keep in mind that I am dating a girl who lives an hour away, and that if all goes according to plan we would be getting married in a couple years, so that is also a factor.