IMHO - it depends. Some '70s era Contessas are very old but have been maintained and upgraded meticulously, and should/do command a higher price, up to and over $20,000, or more in some cases. Other Contessas have been neglected and therefore need a great deal of TLC. At the lower end, it seems that the floor, where you are buying basically a sound infrastructure (hull and deck), was in the sub $10,000 range, down through $8,000 if you are very lucky. For these, you expect to invest time, hard labor and money in bringing her in line with your own wants/expectations. Sales below that, there is likely something very seriously wrong with the vessel where future investment is redirected at the basics rather than upgrading the componentry (standing/running rigging, mechanical, electrical and cabin/deck hardware). Deck and hull issues are things I stay away from...
On being 5'9" and getting pre-83, my own opinion is that it should not be a primary concern. Find the boat that matches your wants and pocketbook (including costs of owning...), doesn't have needs beyond your ability to DIY or pay some one to do, and go.
