it comes with good doors and boot lid and a spare rear end and the engine turns over, it hasn't been on the road in 31 years.  is it worth saving?

I dont think so. The difference between the puchase price and the restored value will not be enough to restore it. Even if your skills in beating, welding and painting were of trade quality it would still be better to buy one already restored. Dont even think of paying someone else to do the work.

Agreed. I'd say paddock basher but it wouldn't pull the skin off a custard.

I passed on it, and feel a bit happier now, (so is the wife)