Here's a peek of a Super Beetle that has been nothing less than Super. It was in the background of my son's recent photo of his pull from a dumpster.
When I bought the 74 in 82 it was always hanging on the back of a tow truck. I knew all the AAA tow truck drivers in San Mateo Co. by their first name. After $5000 in repairs, all the kinks were worked out. It helped to find a reputable mechanic, not use the dealership and let a man take the car in for service and repairs.
It was a daily driver until 99. It has over 400k miles on the car. I think we have rebuilt the engines a couple of times. Its driven to Mexico once or twice. It is proudly retired, given it's service up and beyond what I expected, only expected to come out for special occasions or trips to Santa Cruz. It recently picked up the kids from school one sunny day last month. These are not like the cars manufactured today. They were built to last!
My sister had a standard bug, which I drove once or twice. I prefer the feel of the super. The conv frame I think is even bigger and feels more comfortable to ride in and drive.
Looking at your photos, I think I would choose the gray bug because I am partial to the Supers. Either way you'll have fun.