Only a guess on past problems in my old 60's and 70's cars as it sounds like current leak somewhere maybe multi purpose switch.
Going by the fact that wipers work when door opened points me to a current leak between wipers and interior lights circuit on the oposite side of the wiper switch( the on side). as what comes on when the door is opened is the curtesy light. First a sheet of paper and pencil/pen.
find fuse board inside on dash usually. get in the car shut the door and Sketch the fuseboard layout marking down value of each fuse and what it protects.
Go through all fuses and if you find any blown put them back in, don't replace at this stage.
Now with the interior light fuse left out open the door see if wipers operate. if not that's the problem, where I know not but guessing the multi wiper switch some where has linked to the curtesy light circuit. You best to call auto electrician.
Replace the blown fuse/s if any see what happens afte also putting back in the interior light fuse if any blown call auto electrician who should be able to find the fault.
As for starter can't really comment on as so much has changed on vehcile ignition most being modular electronic ignitions.
Sorry can't be of further help. Keep looking in though someone might know exactly.
BB, September 2011
