Thanks everyone for your kind words and appreciation. It's just a start to a long journey, and I look forward to your expertise, comments and views along the way!
@ Storm: how about a meet up this weekend, Sat/Sun? What sort of treat you thinking of?(H)
@ Razak: sure buddy, a treat is in order, but given that you're in Liberia...I'm not sure how to do that remotely!
@ Carsus: thanks, will be needing a comprehensive catalogue of parts. Will check out.
@Malik & Isbcab: well, the actual owner was not at all in a mood to sell - in fact, he was in tears when I was leaving and I had to console him and assure him that the car was going into very good hands indeed, and I'll be sending him pictures of the car as it progresses through its resto. Actually, the owner's sons wanted to buy a new City for their expanding families, and they felt the old Bug was just too small/old.
Interestingly, the car's history includes active military service as a civilian liaison vehicle during the 1971 War. The former owner, who is a retired military serviceman, used to supply various items to soldiers on the front line in this very Beetle - including stationary and medical supplies. He showed me a whole collection of medals, trophies and certificates he earned during the War, which he says he were only awarded because of this car.