I think the User ID you chose says a lot. At $1500, it'd be worth a chance. It's possible the trans is slipping because it just needs a new filter and oil change. Maybe not, but is it worth a chance that's all it is for $1500? You could always ask the guy to get it serviced to see if that's all it is, but if that solves the problem, up goes the price.

Repairing and repainting the damaged panels would require some coin, but there are alternatives for that too. They DO make Rhino lining in yellow now don't they? Wouldn't be the first time someone's done an entire VX in the stuff anyway.

Everything else seems relatively minor, but in the end, it just depends on what kind of chance you feel comfortable taking on this one.

Whatever you decide, welcome to the obsession.