We all have the same wonder at one point or another. . .
One thing I would add to the excellent tips previously stated on getting the car running: When you hit the starter to get oil pressure up, before you allow it to fire, do it with all the plugs removed. This will allow the engine to turn over faster with less strain, and it will get oil pressure up more quickly.
As regards things to look for when you inspect the car, you want to check everywhere for any rust and also check out the mouse problem. If mice ate into the wiring, they for sure ate into other parts of the car too. They could be living in the heater box, glove compartment or under the back seat. Mouse piss is really hard to eliminate with out a lot of work.