You can replace the Compressor pretty easily, but you will need to have it recharged with R12 from a shop. You can either do the regular R12 or get the "Freeze 12," which is a colder compressing version of R12. Either will work fine. I would do my research and see if the new compressor is recommended to be converted to R134a. Some say yes, but it is totally dependent upon if the compressor can handle the new R134a refrigerant. Also, the R12 and R134a oils are not compatible. Before you go install the new compressor, make sure you know which type of refrigerant you wanna run. Also, if the compressor is shot and you are rebuilding the A/C system, you don't have to do the e-vac thing. You only need to do that if you are going to salavage and reuse the components of the A/C system. You can easily replace the whole A/C system on that car for far less than what it would cost just in the install charges a shop would charge. Since the A/C system is 16 years old, I would recommend you get all new stuff--compressor, drier, Condenser, accumulator, orifice tube, check valve stems, o-rings, etc...