Fair Price, Newbie needs help Options

[jarbuthnot]

I bought a 914 new in 1971 and after 13 years sold it (it didn’t like winter) and I’ve regretted it ever since. So I’m now looking to buy one again. I’ve seen a few ads for cars I’m interested in buying, but how do I determine if the price is a fair one for the seller and the buyer? I’ve got the NADA prices, but it seems that most 914s for sale are over the suggested prices.

Since it’s unlikely I’ll find a 914 in Eastern Maine, how can I find a good mechanic to inspect the car for me?

Sure glad I found this site, it's got loads of good stuff in it.

Joan A

[Lawrence]

Hi Joan,

Excellent question. We preach Pre-Purchase Inspections here.

Likely, you'll find the car you want on some classifieds section (here, Pelican, Rennlist), a swap meet, or through your local PCA/SCCA groups.

My bet is the first option. Usually, if there's a car you want to go see, inviting a fellow club member to go check out the car with you is a good way to go. Most of us are pretty good folks, and won't drink ALL of your wallet up when you buy lunch. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/rolleyes.gif)

California/SW cars are usually the answer. Fly out and drive back is always a great adventure. Car shipping is available, and the folks on this list have a bunch of exerience with that.

Price is ALWAYS dependent on condition: biggest area is rust, of course. For the 4 cylinder cars, 73/74 2.0 cars are generally the most desireable, and usually cost more. Originality is only worth what you want to pay for it. Is a "factory perfect" muffler what you really desire, or will any serviceable aftermarket unit work? Do you want the perfect match to the factory vinyl, or will a nice recover on seats be okay?

Decide what you want, what options you want, and then buy the best condition car you can afford - investing a bit more now is better than trying to spend 5-10x that in repair bills later.

I hope this helps,
Lawrence