It would be a lot cheaper than $1500 if he did all of that himself..
I think the O.P. is upset mainly because a) he is non-mechanical type, and b) he himself realizes he now drives the
car.
I believe he will realize his mistake, come back on and apologize to everyone here for venting about a mistake he caused.
In all seriousness, leb, how in the HELL did they con you into buying a BEETLE? Man, that really sucks. I feel for you, bro.