[Robert Adams]

In all seriousness, I think you need a little more to go on besides "needs total restoration". Being in the NE that to me means tons of rust (major$$) , missing parts, needs total mechanical rebuilding, maybe even a missing title. Point is, it doesn't have a real positive connotation. I think go see it if you can and make your own assessment as to what total restoration means assuming you have experience with this model and year is the way to go. At a minimum get some one qualified to do it if you can't or at least you can determine if you want to go to the next level based upon their evaluation. But honestly, if you are going to spend that kind of money ask a ton of questions of the owner and then decide to go see the car. or not. On the surface $18K doesn't seem that out of line, in fact that sounds great!
Just keep in mind, $8k to$10k for a paint job (not counting any body work), $10k at least for an engine rebuild and to redo an interior??..all depends on what can be salvaged. So, your $18 is up to $40 with a blink of an eye and that doesn't include the little stuff, like brake rebuilds, clutch, trans rebuild, new exhaust, tires, wheel restoration..and on and on!
Get more info and then we can help you! Information is key and the more you have the better off you will be. Start with the tires and work your way up.
Hum, don't mean for this to sound like a lecture, sorry! I've just seen to many guys get in way over their heads with this kind of project and it's sooooo easy to do even if you know what you are doing. On the other hand you couldn't have picked a better car!
Good luck!