What's a 1975 1.8L project worth? Options

[andreic]

Someone in my general area is selling a 1975 project. I haven't yet looked at it, but the owner says the motor has been completely rebuilt by a local shop (no details provided), possibly up to 1.9L. The L-Jet FI is included but no guarantees on its condition. The engine and transmission are out of the car, which has been recently repainted by a local shop (probably a decent driver quality paint job, nothing special).

The seller says the car came from Oregon and has no rust. I have not yet independently confirmed this, as the car is more than 3 hours away from me. If I were to go take a look at it this would be the first thing to check. The interior is in rough condition and will need to be replaced or redone somehow. (For example the dash has a split in it.)

The seller asks $5000 for this project. Is that high, low, etc.? What would it be worth?

I apologize if this is the wrong forum for asking this question. I am happy to move it to another category if people suggest that I should do it.

[JamesM]

What you are looking at is basically

1. A 75 rolling chassis that is no longer its original color
2. A 1.8 long block in unknown condition
3. A pile of parts

I think $1500-$2000 (if its worth anything) depending on condition of the tub and the completeness of the pile of parts. It sounds like you would need a 914 junkie to go with you to evaluate though and as a long time 914 junkie i can tell you that if you need someone like me to go with you to identify the pile that this is probably not the car for you at any price other than maybe free.

What you are looking at here is a good amount of work and a large list of unknowns that will result in more work and or money all for what is generally considered the least desired year and trim. To even consider $5k that car should at least be able to move under its own power.