What would you do?

It sounds to me as if the poor car hasn't been loved by previous owners, so due to its age all the things that usually wear and are replaced over time are coming at once. As long as the engine is fine and the body is good I'd agree with the general consensus and keep it. The of these small bits you fix the less to go wrong.

The build quality isn't really anything to do with it... every one of us forget how old our cars are getting. The good thing is the parts (and normally labour!!) are pretty cheap when you compare it to a 'foreign' make. For example my mates ultra reliable Honda Accord had it's exhaust vandalised and stolen... and wait for it... £500 plus for a replacement and god only knows how much if it was OEM parts! The car only cost him a grand!

Next time come on here and ask for someone local to help out - bung them a few quid (or a beer and some bacon sarnies) and I am sure it will save you a packet! :beer: