1) If your struts are bad there are simple tests to demonstrate that. a) Quickly push the corner of the car down and let go. The corner should go down, bounce up and then stop. If it keeps bouncing, you need a strut there. b) Are your tires cupped? If so, you may need struts.

2) If you don't need struts based on #1, don't get them.

3) Rubber bushings do wear out, but they can look nasty and still be fine. Don't replace them just because they look bad.

4) Noises can be lots of things. If it's not wheel bearings or other suspension noises, it's probably not something to worry about. But someone should be able to figure out where it's coming from....

5) We spent ~ $850 for rear struts and a 4 wheel alignment on a 1983 Corolla at a local shop. I think the dealer price was a little less. The dealer should be able to tell you how many hours it would take (they have books of these numbers). Take that and their labor rate, get the cost of the parts, add in tax and "shop supplies" and you'll know what it should cost. It sounds reasonable to me.

Bottom line - don't spend any more money until you know more.

HTH. Luck!

Cheers,
Scott.