This is concern #1. I would hope that getting a view from underneath/behind the quarters would be of a benefit.
However, I just found this: http://kpr.craigslist.org/cto/3286205464.html
How hard would it be to turn this into a '73? Front fenders, hood and grille? I could actually get down there and back in a (long) day if needed too. This actually has all of the trim pieces that my Dad's car had too.