Salt belt member here. I used a few vintage vehicles as winter beaters. Usually as drivable parts donors. They weren't nice to begin with and when the rust got too bad I'd yank drivetrain and interior etc..

I did have a Waggoner that I put together as a winter driver, fairly solid and well rustproofed. Lasted about 1o years. But the heater sucked bigly.

I've got an 80 Ramcharger that I think I'll put together for the same, but better rustproofing and rear heater.

I'm actually fixing the heater in my Roadrunner to use as a backup vehicle this winter but hoping not to need it. Car needs all new metal anyway.