It is probably an old Model 150 pre 1964, the A designates that it is an aerobat. In 1964 I believe the big wrap around rear window was added. It was not until 1966 that the bigger doors and the swept tail fin that you are probably more familiar with was added.
1970 saw the steel pole undercarriage that you will be familier with on more modern 150/152 aircraft. It is powered by the familier continental engine. Older versions were pull starters but I would imagine that there are not many of those left!
You can'e beat a Cessna for fun and economy. They burn around 23lph with a respectibale cruise.
Provided that it has a good engine fund there is no reason why it won't fly pretty much for ever, the airframe is not lifed and anything that can be broken on one is also easily replaced!
A good guide for Cessna aircraft is "The Complete Guide to Single Engine Cessnas" ISBN 0-8306-2268-1 but it may be out of print.