Welcome Buzz…Great find.
As far as converting a VW based car to a front engine set-up, you’d have a easier job making a hang glider out of your dining room table. There are posts on this forum that address this thought.
Our suggestion is to get the VW based car running and look for a front engine (Chevy/Ford) based TD replica to buy after you sell this one. They are out there.
I found an unbuilt front engine Ford based FiberFab TD replica locally in 2002. It was in a guy’s garage loft and attic for 25 years! After building the rolling chassis, I sold it to a California buyer to complete.
Good Luck