I'm looking to buy a classic 1966 vw beetle that's for sale for $3500.
I just need a small fuel efficient, reliable car to get home from work when they make me work nights. The little guy looks to be what I'm looking for.

I don't know how to drive a stick. I figure I could learn on the bug.

What kind of questions should I ask myself about this car, and what kind of questions should I ask the owner? What are the risks with buying off the street?

Thanks!

Definetly ask about repairs that have been done. If they still have receipts, you should see those too.

I doubt you could get a Carfax report on a car that old, so inquire about possible damage. My dad once bought a car that turned out to have been under water at one time and the seller didn't exactly offer that information.

You could also ask (if you can afford it) to take the car to a mechanic you trust and have them look it over to make sure the engine is sound.

As this would be the first car I've owned, I really don't know where to begin finding a mechanic I can trust. Hn! I can't even find a doctor I can trust!

Any advice there? I guess I'm pretty much starting from scratch with the whole automobile thing.