Failing driveway

I have a poorly constructed asphalt driveway, approx 100'x8', with apparently not enough gravel base and possibly not enough asphalt thickness. It is also over clay. As a result there a severe tire depressions and cracking, etc.

Even if I wanted to go cheaply, and convert to a dirt/gravel drive, I am guessing that the asphalt would need to be removed, or possibly even a full tear out of the base and start over. Does this sound correct?

Are there other approaches to consider and/or is there any good solution that would involve leaving whats already there in place?

Any information is appreciated. Thanks.

 

Asphalt thickness doesn't have too much to do with the strength. Most of that is derived from a good base. I don't see why you would need to tear out the asphalt if you are going to put gravel down. I'm certainly no expert, but I think it would actually be better that way. The asphalt will prevent the gravel from being pushed into the dirt. That way you won't need to dump gravel on your driveway every two years.