Is this 914 1.8 salvageable? Options

[bcsellie]

First time poster, with a big question. I've been looking for a '74 914 that the kids and I can enjoy with a budget of around $10k. We're fond of the bright colors, with orange being the preference. I know these cars are prone to rust, and found a "cheap" example with some issues about 4 hours away.

This car has unknown mileage, needs interior work, has a running 1.8 (compression and leak down stats unknown, and has visible rust in one of the pictures. It's orange, which is original, and can be purchased for $2,000. Would repairs exceed $8,000 and blow my budget?

Pictures attached.....

[Mike Bellis]

I would run from that car. It has some good parts and you might be able to recoup your $2k but there is serious structural issues. It will blow your $8k budget for sure. Spend the $8k on a good car. There are plenty for that price point.

That car is on the verge of this...

[Spoke]

I would run from that car.

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And

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A 10k should get you a car that is "turn key". In other words, turn the key and drive it.

A 2k car will get you one that could cost an extra 10k to make it drivable; especially if you don't do the work yourself including welding.

You have to decide what you want to do with the car: just drive it; or Have it be a project that you and your family works on for 1 to 5 years without driving it.

Also keep in mind that your perfect car may not be within driving distance to obtain. I bought a great 911 turbo in Denver, CO and had it shipped back to PA. I took a flight to Denver to check it out, buy it, and work out the shipping.