The only thing that can kill one is letting it get low on oil, and they use oil so check it often. The transmission will last forever too if you don't let it get low on oil. The ones that get low start getting a whine in 3rd gear. Check the clutch cable, they break after 20 years or so. Looks like a nice fixer upper. You can find any part you need for a bug. It's just a matter of if you prefer new parts or are budget minded. Think about putting early Porsche wheels on it. They look hot on a VW. Enjoy the project.

Les