Anything over the rust is better than nothing. There is a rust convertor available in piss cans and brush applicate, it goes by a bunch of diff names. Then you have to paint over it.

Have you got oodles of time, or money?? I'm gonna echo some earlier comments,that is gonna take a LOT of work to "restore". I would be tempted to take a big hammer and dolly to all that bent metal, make it somewhat straight, then make it roadworthy. Now you have a running driving car, now see what you wish to do with it. You will likely like driving it more than working on it Or, find another, lots of em around, lots of em lots better starting point that yours.

Found some holes in the floorboards, under the pedals on the drivers side, also under the seat support on the drivers side. Front shock towers also look a bit rusty, so I am going to Wisconsin tomorrow to look at a '79, will probably get it, since, as you more experienced and wise(er) guys have said, there are a lot around in better shape than mine . Will probably hang on to the '74, it has a really good drivetrain, just needs tires and brakes to be a runner, then make a decision to fix/sell/part it out. Think it would make a great project or donor car for a more experienced restorer, especially one with some welding and bodywork skills. Here are some photos of the '79, tell me what you think.

the 79 looks nice. they're obviously proud of the carpet on the passenger side since they framed it.

LMFAO!