What do you folks know about the Hyundai Tiburon? I always got the impression that it's kind of a silly car, even if well-built. Like it's trying to be an Eclipse (which sucked by the late '90s, anyway). Am I right?
http://bellingham.craigslist.org/car/308196346.html
The newer ones aren't so bad, but that one looks bloated and out of proportion.
Damn, I thought I knew the answer to this one. But I've only been around the second generation.
I like the new model. All the previous ones are pretty ugly though.
I'd have to say no to that, at least for the price. If it was <$2k I'd consider it. But for $3k, I'd want a newer V6 Tib.
The Tiburon actually stacked up fairly well in the late 90s, but since then the competition has improved faster than it has. Of course, that was before the Hyundai quality turnaround and they were not sold at very high volumes then, so I'd be concerned about reliability and parts availability though.
It's an ugly-ass car, no doubt. It sounds like a less than stellar idea, at any rate.
Danke, as always.
BTW, now I've actually got $3k to spend on a car. It's exciting. :lol:
So what sort of car are you looking for?
While I'm impressed with the current Hyundai's I can't say much for this one. For one it's kind of ugly and cheap on the inside. But old Hyundai's had a problem with the valve chatter. It sounded like a little Korean guy was inside the motor trying to pick Axe himself out.
Hahahahaaha!
Quote from: ifcar on April 08, 2007, 04:57:25 PM
So what sort of car are you looking for?
I'm not totally sure yet. I've been lusting after some old BMWs (535's are within range), and some old Mercedes', but those are likely expensive to maintain (and will need maintaining). More practically, Subarus and Volvos (wagons, of course). I like Sidekicks/Trackers, too. And, of course, Troopers. Externally imposed criteria (being a student is shitty when you have to depend on someone else to pay for your car . :banghead: On the other hand, someone else is paying for my car ;) ) are that it be newer than 1993 or so, and not be a piece of crap. I can probably get around the age thing.
Any other ideas?
I don't know what your standards are, but do you have any experience with the 97-01 Escort/ZX2? Inexpensive, reliable, and fuel efficient, easy to find, and not terrible to drive.
I've never driven one, but I think I'd prefer something with more of a soul.
Cars with a soul are more likely to break. Your choice.
Quote from: ifcar on April 08, 2007, 05:24:46 PM
Cars with a soul are more likely to break. Your choice.
That's not alway true.
MX-5, 240SX, Prelude, MR2 and others have some soul and are reliable. And you can get them for cheap.
Quote from: Onslaught on April 08, 2007, 05:37:32 PM
That's not alway true.
MX-5, 240SX, Prelude, MR2 and others have some soul and are reliable. And you can get them for cheap.
At the age the 240SX, Prelude, and MR-2 are cheap, nothing is reliable. And Psilos has had a Miata in the past, so I assume there's a reason he isn't considering it his time around.
And by the way, I didn't say it was impossible for a reliable car to have a soul, just that the more reliable cars tend to be rather dull.
Porsche 914.
:lol:
Quote from: ifcar on April 08, 2007, 05:39:37 PM
At the age the 240SX, Prelude, and MR-2 are cheap, nothing is reliable. And Psilos has had a Miata in the past, so I assume there's a reason he isn't considering it his time around.
And by the way, I didn't say it was impossible for a reliable car to have a soul, just that the more reliable cars tend to be rather dull.
I'd buy another Miata if it was a second car. Or if they could be found for $3000 (and still be good cars). :lol:
But that's true, about reliable cars tending to have less of a soul. That's exactly my dilemma.
Quote from: Psilos on April 08, 2007, 05:44:32 PM
I'd buy another Miata if it was a second car. Or if they could be found for $3000 (and still be good cars). :lol:
But that's true, about reliable cars tending to have less of a soul. That's exactly my dilemma.
Go for soul-less transportation now, and trade it in for something more interesting when you can afford repairs.
Pah. Why drive something I hate?
Quote from: Raza ?link=topic=8504.msg411177#msg411177 date=1176075698
Porsche 914.
:lol:
Yes. That is the perfect car for $3000. Psilos must get one.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1972-Porsche-914-1-8-liter_W0QQitemZ200097773485QQihZ010QQcategoryZ6430QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
Save up another $3000 and you can swap a Chevy 350 into that baby.
Quote from: Psilos on April 08, 2007, 05:57:57 PM
Pah. Why drive something I hate?
Why buy a car that doesn't run?
For $3000, I can find a car that has soul and runs.
Quote from: Psilos on April 08, 2007, 06:07:00 PM
For $3000, I can find a car that has soul and runs.
I suppose your luck is bound to change eventually. :P
Indeed.
I think you can pick up a MX6/Probe in good shape for that price. They were decent IIRC.
For $3000 you can get a Celica, Sentra SE-R, Integra LS, Civic Si, Escort ZX2, two or three Neons, or even a beat up old 318ti if you so desire.
You might find a decent 1993-ish Ford Taurus SHO for that kind of money ($3,000). If you want a car that large, that is. :huh:
Quote from: Laconian on April 08, 2007, 06:20:28 PM
I think you can pick up a MX6/Probe in good shape for that price. They were decent IIRC.
Yeah, that is the short list of coupes.
None of the cars NAcar mentioned really do it for me. I need something more... eh, practical, I suppose. Or more fun.
I'd love an SHO, but the ones I've seen around here are high mileage, automatic, in bad shape, or hells of expensive.
I know a guy with a SHO and the repair bills are murder.
Quote from: Onslaught on April 08, 2007, 05:37:32 PM
That's not alway true.
MX-5, 240SX, Prelude, MR2 and others have some soul and are reliable. And you can get them for cheap.
Hahahahahahahahah. A cheap Prelude? My 1995 with 300k+ is worth almost $4 grand.
Neon sounds like a good car for you. Other than the head gasket issue (count on it going every 60k, unless it is properly fixed with new studs or whatever they are called) they are reliable, are dirt cheap, and plenty fun to drive. For $3k you could get one of the later 1st gen models with the DOHC engine.
An Accord like SportyAccordy? He's getting one for $3k with 220hp...
I thought SHOs were all manuals except for the V8 ones?
No, I believe the second gen got an automatic as well as a 3.2l V6 instead of the 3.0 that came with the manual.
Quote from: TBR on April 08, 2007, 09:16:09 PM
Hahahahahahahahah. A cheap Prelude? My 1995 with 300k+ is worth almost $4 grand.
Neon sounds like a good car for you. Other than the head gasket issue (count on it going every 60k, unless it is properly fixed with new studs or whatever they are called) they are reliable, are dirt cheap, and plenty fun to drive. For $3k you could get one of the later 1st gen models with the DOHC engine.
No Neons. I'd rather have an MX6.
The first gen SHO had the Yamaha V6 and either a five-speed or an automatic. The auto was junk. The second gen had a V8 and, I think, similar transmission choices. The second gen isn't really any good.
Quote from: Raghavan on April 08, 2007, 09:20:19 PM
An Accord like SportyAccordy? He's getting one for $3k with 220hp...
Nah... I don't want something modified. Or something I'll really want to modify.
Older RWD Volvos? I think they made them past '93.
Those things last forever.
Quote from: Psilos on April 08, 2007, 09:41:41 PM
No Neons. I'd rather have an MX6.
The first gen SHO had the Yamaha V6 and either a five-speed or an automatic. The auto was junk. The second gen had a V8 and, I think, similar transmission choices. The second gen isn't really any good.
There were 3-gens. The first two had the V6 and the third the V8. I suppose you could say that the second gen was just a refresh of the first, but pretty much all of the sheetmetal is different.
Quote from: Psilos on April 08, 2007, 05:12:08 PM
I'm not totally sure yet. I've been lusting after some old BMWs (535's are within range), and some old Mercedes', but those are likely expensive to maintain (and will need maintaining). More practically, Subarus and Volvos (wagons, of course). I like Sidekicks/Trackers, too. And, of course, Troopers. Externally imposed criteria (being a student is shitty when you have to depend on someone else to pay for your car . :banghead: On the other hand, someone else is paying for my car ;) ) are that it be newer than 1993 or so, and not be a piece of crap. I can probably get around the age thing.
Any other ideas?
Based on your track record I don't think you should get a car. Ever :lol:
Btw, SHO's after '96 had V8 and all were auto. <------95% sure
The list is basically:
-older BMW or Mercedes-- effectively impossible, because it would have to have low miles, been well maintained (with documentation), be in perfect condition, and still be $3k or under.
-Trooper-- I'm looking into gen 2 now that there's more money. It still needs to have a manual, though, and, of course, low miles, etc.
-Sidekick/Tracker-- I don't know a lot about these, but I've heard they're really good and capable. Hardtop four-doors only.
-Volvos, Subarus-- Wagons and manuals, of course.
-SHO, MX6-- good cars and fun.
-the odd cheap good fun car-- There's a Rex 7 in range, and it sounds like it's a good car with 76k miles, but it's an '87. That'll never get past the money tree.
-Pick-ups-- Vaguely considering small 4-cyl 2WD trucks, but also full-sizers with 6-cylinders, manuals and 4wd. I hear the sixers can get upwards (barely) of 20 mpg on the highway. I had a chance on a mid-80s Ford F150 that fit that description back in September, but I passed. Kinda regret that now... (I don't need all the space of a full-size truck, but if the gas mileage is good enough, well, why not? I'm sure I can find something that goes in the back).
-mainstream sedans-- Not too enthused about the idea of an Accord or Camry, but those are good reliable cars to fall back on if I can't find something I actually like.
So, yeah, not really looking for a Civic.
Quote from: Raghavan on April 08, 2007, 09:43:20 PM
Older RWD Volvos? I think they made them past '93.
Those things last forever.
Well, yeah. See above. ;)
I had a Volvo, remember? It was well on its way to lasting forever, I suppose you could say. :lol:
Quote from: TBR on April 08, 2007, 09:44:55 PM
There were 3-gens. The first two had the V6 and the third the V8. I suppose you could say that the second gen was just a refresh of the first, but pretty much all of the sheetmetal is different.
I lump the first two together, since both have a similar look. Though the first gen looks less squinty.
http://eugene.craigslist.org/car/286361813.html
:lol:
Quote from: SaltyDog on April 08, 2007, 09:49:36 PM
Based on your track record I don't think you should get a car. Ever :lol:
Btw, SHO's after '96 had V8 and all were auto. <------95% sure
Hey, my first three cars were great.
Then buy this one too:
http://eugene.craigslist.org/car/308356632.html
Quote from: Raghavan on April 08, 2007, 09:59:17 PM
http://eugene.craigslist.org/car/286361813.html
:lol:
I'm in Bellingham. Otherwise I'd tell the money to bugger off and buy it myself! Hehehe...
But, speaking of a SHO, I looked at one (just looked, didn't drive it) last fall, but then I talked to a Ford service manager...
That second one is in Springtucky. We don't go to Springtucky. ;)
http://eugene.craigslist.org/car/290903796.html
Maybe that, dunno.
Oh, oops.
Quote from: TBR on April 08, 2007, 10:01:05 PM
But, speaking of a SHO, I looked at one (just looked, didn't drive it) last fall, but then I talked to a Ford service manager...
AutobahnSHO says they are expensive, but if you stay on top of things, they don't break down, so it sort of evens out. Somewhat like a really really well-kept Bimmer, I suppose.
Old skool:
http://bellingham.craigslist.org/car/303396698.html
Holy crap this is even nicer:
http://bellingham.craigslist.org/car/291887782.html
Quote from: Psilos on April 08, 2007, 09:56:00 PM
The list is basically:
-older BMW or Mercedes-- effectively impossible, because it would have to have low miles, been well maintained (with documentation), be in perfect condition, and still be $3k or under.
Not going to happen[quote
-Trooper-- I'm looking into gen 2 now that there's more money. It still needs to have a manual, though, and, of course, low miles, etc.
Quote
Not a bad idea, but you will have a hard time find one for that money with a manual (or with a manual period!) and low miles.
Quote
-Sidekick/Tracker-- I don't know a lot about these, but I've heard they're really good and capable. Hardtop four-doors only.
If you want a SUV this seems like the best option.
Quote
-Volvos, Subarus-- Wagons and manuals, of course.
Good luck finding a Volvo wagon with a 5-spd.
Quote
-SHO, MX6-- good cars and fun.
I'd avoid a SHO for reliabilty concerns, the MX6/Probe is certainly a good option though, one that I very seriously considered (if I didn't find the Prelude when I did I probably would be driving a Probe).
Quote
-the odd cheap good fun car-- There's a Rex 7 in range, and it sounds like it's a good car with 76k miles, but it's an '87. That'll never get past the money tree.
You're going to have a hard time finding a newer sports car in your budget.
Quote
-Pick-ups-- Vaguely considering small 4-cyl 2WD trucks, but also full-sizers with 6-cylinders, manuals and 4wd. I hear the sixers can get upwards (barely) of 20 mpg on the highway. I had a chance on a mid-80s Ford F150 that fit that description back in September, but I passed. Kinda regret that now... (I don't need all the space of a full-size truck, but if the gas mileage is good enough, well, why not? I'm sure I can find something that goes in the back).
One of my friends used to have the exact truck you described (early '90s F-150 I6 4x4 with the 4MT), and it got crappy gas mileage and cost more than $3k. If you want a truck I would look for a compact V6.
Quote
-Japanese sedans-- Not too enthused about the idea of an Accord or Camry, but those are good reliable cars to fall back on if I can't find something I actually like.
Can't say I blame you there, but what about a Maxima?
So, yeah, not really looking for a Civic.
Quote
Yeah, I do like those 122 series'.
http://bellingham.craigslist.org/car/308340335.html-That could be fun.
http://bellingham.craigslist.org/car/306345975.html-Even better
http://bellingham.craigslist.org/car/303187563.html-WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU WAITING FOR!!!!???
Try and haggle this down:
http://bellingham.craigslist.org/car/308214770.html
'88 Ranger, 95k miles, tool box:
http://bellingham.craigslist.org/car/293581940.html
$1500! :mask:
Don't know if it really gets 35mpg though.
Quote from: ro51092 on April 08, 2007, 10:09:22 PM
http://bellingham.craigslist.org/car/308340335.html-That could be fun.
http://bellingham.craigslist.org/car/306345975.html-Even better
http://bellingham.craigslist.org/car/303187563.html-WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU WAITING FOR!!!!???
Not Found
There is nothing here
No web page for this address
404 Error
For all three.
Kind of a lot of miles, but an option:
http://bellingham.craigslist.org/car/303114026.html
Quote from: TBR on April 08, 2007, 10:07:32 PM
Not going to happenIf you want a SUV this seems like the best option.Good luck finding a Volvo wagon with a 5-spd. I'd avoid a SHO for reliabilty concerns, the MX6/Probe is certainly a good option though, one that I very seriously considered (if I didn't find the Prelude when I did I probably would be driving a Probe).You're going to have a hard time finding a newer sports car in your budget.One of my friends used to have the exact truck you described (early '90s F-150 I6 4x4 with the 4MT), and it got crappy gas mileage and cost more than $3k. If you want a truck I would look for a compact V6.Can't say I blame you there, but what about a Maxima?
So, yeah, not really looking for a Civic.
^Terrible quote... My bad.
But I know all that (well, except the bit about the truck). ;) The list is to give people an idea of what sort of thing I'm looking for. I figure, if people are gonna contribute ideas, they may as well be somewhat more aligned with what I want than some that have been posted. ;)
Quote
Quote from: Raza on April 08, 2007, 10:11:26 PM
Not Found
There is nothing here
No web page for this address
404 Error
For all three.
http://bellingham.craigslist.org/car/308340335.html.
http://bellingham.craigslist.org/car/306345975.html
http://bellingham.craigslist.org/car/303187563.html
Quote from: ro51092 on April 08, 2007, 10:09:22 PM
http://bellingham.craigslist.org/car/308340335.html -That could be fun.
http://bellingham.craigslist.org/car/306345975.html -Even better
http://bellingham.craigslist.org/car/303187563.html -WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU WAITING FOR!!!!???
The Z is intriguing, but the Porsche has a bad head gasket. I'm not dealing with that! (And I've definitely considered it).
Quote from: Psilos on April 08, 2007, 10:15:41 PM
Use these, Raza.
Thanks, Psilos.
If that 944 price is indicative of how much the NA ones cost, I'd hold out for something without body damage, but that's a good car. I mean, it's not Trooper practical, but the hatch gives you good space, and the rear seats fold as well. Decently quick too, I hear. BMWDave's friend bought one not too long ago, maybe he knows more about them.
Quote from: TBR on April 08, 2007, 09:44:55 PM
There were 3-gens. The first two had the V6 and the third the V8. I suppose you could say that the second gen was just a refresh of the first, but pretty much all of the sheetmetal is different.
Yes, there are three generations of Taurus:
1986-1995
1996-2007
2008- ?
:lol:
That 2000 Ranger could be what I want. I'm gonna pursue it. Does anyone know lots about Rangers, and might I acquire some advice on what to look for? Seems like I always hear that they're good in terms of performing their basic function for a long time, but less so in terms of fit and finish, etc.
Quote from: Raza on April 08, 2007, 10:20:06 PM
Thanks, Psilos.
If that 944 price is indicative of how much the NA ones cost, I'd hold out for something without body damage, but that's a good car. I mean, it's not Trooper practical, but the hatch gives you good space, and the rear seats fold as well. Decently quick too, I hear. BMWDave's friend bought one not too long ago, maybe he knows more about them.
Yeah, I'd love one. It's on the future list of second cars, with Miatas, late '70s 911s, modified (by me) VW Bugs, etc.
Quote from: Psilos on April 08, 2007, 10:22:16 PM
That 2000 Ranger could be what I want. I'm gonna pursue it. Does anyone know lots about Rangers, and might I acquire some advice on what to look for? Seems like I always hear that they're good in terms of performing their basic function for a long time, but less so in terms of fit and finish, etc.
Let us know how it goes.
The '88 Ranger isn't bad but has no A/C or stereo or anything.
And it's old and in kind of mediocre condition, even with low miles.
Quote from: Psilos on April 08, 2007, 10:22:16 PM
That 2000 Ranger could be what I want. I'm gonna pursue it. Does anyone know lots about Rangers, and might I acquire some advice on what to look for? Seems like I always hear that they're good in terms of performing their basic function for a long time, but less so in terms of fit and finish, etc.
I had a 91 4x4 that I traded with over 170K miles. It needed a tranny rebuild around 150K miles, which shouldn't be an issue with the newer one. Some Rangers in that late '80s/early '90s (mine included) had a Mitsubishi transmission, which was garbage. That 2000 should have a Mazda tranny, which is a more robust unit.
Otherwise, the truck was a runner, and I abused the shit out of it. It's just like you said; fit and finish wasn't the greatest, and it had a crappy ride, but mechanically it was fine. The 4cyl models are slow, but decently fuel efficient and you can put a lot of miles on 'em.
Mine was a regular cab, and light as hell in the back, so it was pretty squirrelly in anything other than dry pavement. A couple of sandbags worked wonders. Any more specific questions, let me know. This is off the top of my head, I'm sure I can dredge back into the recesses and remember more.
Danke. I'm familiar with the sandbag method. My parents have an S10 with the 4.3 L V6 that had bald tires. Damn.
Quote from: Psilos on April 08, 2007, 10:22:16 PM
That 2000 Ranger could be what I want. I'm gonna pursue it. Does anyone know lots about Rangers, and might I acquire some advice on what to look for? Seems like I always hear that they're good in terms of performing their basic function for a long time, but less so in terms of fit and finish, etc.
The two Rangers we've had in our family were surprisingly reliable. Cabin quality is just average, but at least they don't have any squeaks and rattles. Bucket seats are more comfortable than the bench, though the bench isn't horrible (way better than S10's bench). Good little truck, overall. Gutless with the four-cylinder, though...regardless of transmission.
I don't need guts in the truck. I have plenty. ;)
It just has to be able to do 85 for a few hours. :lol:
If you don't care about speed, get yourself a 2.2 liter Impreza or Legacy and have a car that will run forever.
Quote from: Psilos on April 08, 2007, 10:15:41 PM
The Z is intriguing, but the Porsche has a bad head gasket. I'm not dealing with that! (And I've definitely considered it).
How about the VR6?
That sounds like a pain in the ass. Anacortes (where the car is) ain't exactly next door, and the guy selling it isn't there. That's a recipe for annoying, if nothing else.
Quote from: the Teuton on April 08, 2007, 10:45:25 PM
If you don't care about speed, get yourself a 2.2 liter Impreza or Legacy and have a car that will run forever.
Indeed. And that's why Subarus are on my above list. ;) :lol:
It's sick how much time one spends thinking about cars they might buy...
Right now, I'm debating whether or not to follow up on this ad:
http://www.autotrader.com/fyc/vdp.jsp?car_id=218072692&dealer_id=59617979&car_year=1992&model=&num_records=25&make3=SUB&make2=BMW&start_year=1988&keywordsfyc=&keywordsrep=&engine=&certified=&body_code=0&fuel=&search_type=both&distance=75&model3=&model2=&make=VOLVO&color=&min_price=&drive=&default_sort=priceDESC&max_mileage=&style_flag=1&sort_type=priceDESC&address=98225&advanced=&end_year=1996&doors=&transmission=&max_price=3500&cardist=4
It's a pretty nice car, from all appearances, but it's got a damned automatic transmission. I dunno if I like that idea. It's also a sedan, but I think the cool/fun factor would outweigh that well enough.
d00d I'll sell you my Camry for cheap.
Man, if it comes to a Camry, you'll be the first to know.
How cheap? :lol:
75 cents, and a rubber band.
Shit, man, I got the rubber band and 64 and a half cents. Whaddaya say?
Quote from: Psilos on April 09, 2007, 02:02:30 AM
Shit, man, I got the rubber band and 64 and a half cents. Whaddaya say?
He's a fool if he doesn't accept.
I could even throw in a few bits of eraser, if need be.
That Volvo 960 looks like it's in decent condition.? I dunno for sure, but I don't think you can get a manual in that car.? With that engine, anyway.? I could be wrong, however.? ?:huh:
Quote from: Psilos on April 09, 2007, 02:07:00 AM
I could even throw in a few bits of eraser, if need be.
Settle, mate; it's not a bloody Roller. ;)
MX-3 GS? The V6 ones are fun but finding one that's still in good shape could be a problem. I had one for years with no problems but then again that was 10 years ago.
Quote from: Psilos on April 08, 2007, 09:56:00 PM
The list is basically:
-older BMW or Mercedes-- effectively impossible, because it would have to have low miles, been well maintained (with documentation), be in perfect condition, and still be $3k or under.
Not even SLIGHTLY impossible, as the E30 and E12/E28s are both available for well under that dollar figure and reliable AND fun. I've found dozens of them in the $1k range, which would leave you a couple grand for initial maintenance and then you're done.
Look at 323s and 325s, or 528s.
I've even found NICE early 6 series coupes for around 3 grand.
I was looking at cars for my kid when he gets his driver's license in a year, instead of bringing the Comet coupe over from Seattle, and found quite a few of these cars.
Psilos,? you should have bought my 94 Duster when I was selling it for $400.? :P
But it sounds to me like an Esteem wagon would suit you better. I'll take $30000 cash. :devil:
Quote from: ChrisV on April 09, 2007, 07:46:53 AM
Not even SLIGHTLY impossible, as the E30 and E12/E28s are both available for well under that dollar figure and reliable AND fun. I've found dozens of them in the $1k range, which would leave you a couple grand for initial maintenance and then you're done.
Look at 323s and 325s, or 528s.
I've even found NICE early 6 series coupes for around 3 grand.
I was looking at cars for my kid when he gets his driver's license in a year, instead of bringing the Comet coupe over from Seattle, and found quite a few of these cars.
6 series!
Quote from: ChrisV on April 09, 2007, 07:46:53 AM
Not even SLIGHTLY impossible, as the E30 and E12/E28s are both available for well under that dollar figure and reliable AND fun. I've found dozens of them in the $1k range, which would leave you a couple grand for initial maintenance and then you're done.
Look at 323s and 325s, or 528s.
I've even found NICE early 6 series coupes for around 3 grand.
I was looking at cars for my kid when he gets his driver's license in a year, instead of bringing the Comet coupe over from Seattle, and found quite a few of these cars.
I've seen lots of Bimmers going for less than I've got, but I don't have time to work on a car. I've barely got the time to work on my bicycles! Everything around here that's a good price has high miles or is beat to shit. :shrug:
Quote from: NACar on April 09, 2007, 08:28:41 AM
Psilos, you should have bought my 94 Duster when I was selling it for $400. :P
But it sounds to me like an Esteem wagon would suit you better. I'll take $30000 cash. :devil:
Can I give that to you in Monopoly money?
Quote from: omicron on April 09, 2007, 02:08:20 AM
Settle, mate; it's not a bloody Roller. ;)
I don't know what that is, you wacky Aussie.
Quote from: USA_Idol on April 09, 2007, 02:07:46 AM
That Volvo 960 looks like it's in decent condition. I dunno for sure, but I don't think you can get a manual in that car. With that engine, anyway. I could be wrong, however. :huh:
Yeah, it's an automatic. It could be such a nice car that it doesn't matter, though. I dunno... I really would prefer a manual (which would sadly rule out many a Volvo).
Quote from: Psilos on April 09, 2007, 12:09:33 PM
I don't know what that is, you wacky Aussie.
rolls royce :huh:
Quote from: Psilos on April 09, 2007, 12:08:01 PM
I've seen lots of Bimmers going for less than I've got, but I don't have time to work on a car. I've barely got the time to work on my bicycles! Everything around here that's a good price has high miles or is beat to shit. :shrug:
High miles aren't really a problem with those cars, especially the eta engine versions. There are a lot out there under $3k that you wouldn't have to work on. At least no more than any other sub $3k car would tend to be needing. Certain wear you can live with, or at least should expect to live with in that price range. Hell, the early E30s and E28s can be had in that price range that need absolutely nothing.
It's really temping, but I'm really very poor (which is why someone else is paying for the car), and, even if it needs only minimal attention every now and again, it's still more expensive than other cars. There's a 535i around here for sale that's in my range, and has 195k miles. If I'd put the last 70k on myself, I'd not be the remotest bit worried, but I have no idea what the maintainence is, and with that many miles, that's the most important thing in determining if the car is going to need stuff soon or not. Take note of my recent history with cars, and my lack of money, and it's pretty clear that high mileage cars (of really any make or year) aren't really what I want.
However, low mileage RX7s could be another story. I don't really know much about them, other than that they're great handlers, and the engines are good. Are they cheap to run, or not? I'd expect something in the middle, as the rotary engine isn't exactly the most common thing on the road.
http://bellingham.craigslist.org/car/305373175.html
This was the first email he sent, abridged and for additional info:
"It is a 5 speed manual. The engine is in great condition and the car really handles well.
"The rubber side door guards are partially loose. The drivers side leather seat is worn. The automatic AM power antenna does not operate on power mode (you can still listen to FM radio --- that antena is in windshield.) There is a wire loose on one of the front stereo speakers.
"I am the orginal owner -- so I know the care pretty well. If you are really interested I can give you an honest report about the car's condition."
I'm a RX-7 fan. But I would stay away from one as my every day car if your looking for problem free transportation. They are all old now and finding a mechanic that can work on one won't be easy. That and parts on RX cars are very expensive.
Hmm, well, it's worth checking out, at least.
Laconian I'll give you $100 for your Camry. :P
Quote from: Onslaught on April 09, 2007, 05:30:31 PM
I'm a RX-7 fan. But I would stay away from one as my every day car if your looking for problem free transportation. They are all old now and finding a mechanic that can work on one won't be easy. That and parts on RX cars are very expensive.
I didn't think they were all that expensive to repair. But you're a mechanic, right? In that case I'll take your word for it. Either way, Rex's are fun, fun, fun.
Oh man... I do love that Rex (already). The only thing even remotely worth noting that is wrong with it is the sunroof, which does not leak, but does not open, either (the motor makes a sound and it moves a bit, but no opening). It looks great, sounds great, goes great, is great. Super condition. All the under hood bits look fine, etc. I want to buy it (practicality be damned), but I'm still somewhat iffy on the reliability front.
Could I get some more input on the reliability? Common problems, cost to repair, general likelihood that something will go wrong, etc. We'll assume everything on it is in effectively perfect condition right now. Help from people familiar directly is especially appreciated. Thanks!
It's only got 76,000 miles, and as far as the guy (original owner) knows, needs nothing (there are some scratches and bits of trim that could use some help, as well as a slightly munched corner of the drivers seat and the non-op sunroof, but nothing actually important).
Some guy at school bought an '83 RX7 for $3000 with 42000 miles. Perfect condition. :mask:
BTW are you looking at that Ranger?
Quote from: SaltyDog on April 09, 2007, 07:38:28 PM
I didn't think they were all that expensive to repair.? But you're a mechanic, right?? In that case I'll take your word for it.? Either way, Rex's are fun, fun, fun.
I'm an auto body technician so it's a little different. But Mazda parts are kind of expensive and if it has a RX in the name on it then they double it again. Something like the converters on a RX-7 cost almost as much as the used car itself.
I'm not saying don't get a RX because I LOVE them. But try to see if you can find a good RX mechanic in your area for when you could need one. And get a compression test on the motor before you buy.
And they tend to just fail. No warning. Mine did, and so do many others. There are only 3 primary moving parts in the engine, but dozens of seals and any of them can go bad easily, causing major grief.
Anything that can go wrong with a regular car could go bad on that one a week after you get it. The logicon could go out like most of them do. Those years were prone to flooding, which can wash down the combustion chambers causing the seals to go bad. Mine flooded 5 times, then an apex seal destroyed itself, and it was well maintained.
Bone stock they CAN go to 200k+ miles, however, but I wouldn't place any bets on it. I'd put more money on my 150k BMW making it to 200k with no other real work than i would that RX7.
Sure, it's fun to drive, but if you use it as intended, they have short lifespans.
If you buy something that's at the limit of your budget, and it needs any repairs, you will be screwed, regardless of car. Which is why I was suggesting what I was suggesting, to look for something well under your budget and leave money for important repairs if necessary.
Quote from: Onslaught on April 10, 2007, 06:16:42 AM
I'm an auto body technician so it's a little different. But Mazda parts are kind of expensive and if it has a RX in the name on it then they double it again. Something like the converters on a RX-7 cost almost as much as the used car itself.
I'm not saying don't get a RX because I LOVE them. But try to see if you can find a good RX mechanic in your area for when you could need one. And get a compression test on the motor before you buy.
Oh, yes, a mechanic who knows them will be found, and they'll look it over very well, before I buy it, if I decide to keep going.
Quote from: ChrisV on April 10, 2007, 06:53:31 AM
If you buy something that's at the limit of your budget, and it needs any repairs, you will be screwed, regardless of car. Which is why I was suggesting what I was suggesting, to look for something well under your budget and leave money for important repairs if necessary.
Yeah, I know. And I agree, but since it's not my money, I can't really do that. Either I get a car for $3k and pay to repair it when it needs it, or I buy a car for $2k and pay to repair it when it needs it.
Quote from: ChrisV on April 10, 2007, 06:39:40 AM
And they tend to just fail. No warning. Mine did, and so do many others. There are only 3 primary moving parts in the engine, but dozens of seals and any of them can go bad easily, causing major grief.
Anything that can go wrong with a regular car could go bad on that one a week after you get it. The logicon could go out like most of them do. Those years were prone to flooding, which can wash down the combustion chambers causing the seals to go bad. Mine flooded 5 times, then an apex seal destroyed itself, and it was well maintained.
Bone stock they CAN go to 200k+ miles, however, but I wouldn't place any bets on it. I'd put more money on my 150k BMW making it to 200k with no other real work than i would that RX7.
Sure, it's fun to drive, but if you use it as intended, they have short lifespans.
Hmmm... On the other hand, it's only got 76k well-maintained (with records!) miles, and it's the original owner, so he does know the car pretty well. I'd be satisfied with 150k miles out of it. That would probably take me the better part of a decade (and, I hope, in less than that, I'll be able to replace it with something even better).
The car is completely stock, and I'm pretty sure the guy didn't drive it nearly as hard as it was meant to be driven. Most of my driving would also be relatively sedate (but, clearly, not all). He did mention the flooding thing, but said it was just something that happened and not really a big deal. Any idea on how some likely critical failure is? It sounds like I might be just as well off with a similar era Bimmer.
I looked at the Ranger today. It's bloody nice, for something without even a tape deck. Pretty much perfect condition, as far as I can tell. I believe it's been well maintained. A mechanic is going to check it out on Friday morning, and I might have a new rig by Friday evening. It's not boring to drive, and it cruises at 70 plus just fine. It's got enough ground clearance for just about any road I'm realistically going to need to go on. There really isn't anything that could go wrong, it seems.
If I do get something like that, I might be able to swing a (very) cheap fun car sometime in the more near than not future. A year, or so, potentially less, and there could be an old Bug next to the Ranger. That's my hope, at least. :lol:
Oh, FYI, this is the 2000 Ranger, 2WD, with a five-speed, 122k miles, no options (including carpet!), regular cab, and short bed. She took the offer of $2800 (assuming everything is good to go), which is a pretty good deal from what I can tell.
Get an Edsel Ranger!
Nice! Let us know how it goes...
$2800 for a 2000 Ranger is a great deal i think.
The Ranger sounds like a good deal. I had a '96, and it was dead nuts reliable. The 200o era trucks were better yet.
Subaru BRAT!
(looks on Craigslist)
holy CRAP, they're expensive!
Seriously. They're too old, anyway.
So, the Ranger got hit by a reversing neighbor just after I looked at it. The dent is totally minor, though, so I'm gonna keep going with it all. The seller wants to fix it before selling (since the other person's insurance is obviously paying), so I'm not sure exactly what's up. The mechanic is still gonna look at it tomorrow.
Ouch. :lol:
Meh, I'm not too worried about it. It occurred to me, though, that 120k miles is just about timing belt country. That might be a deal breaker...
Has the timing belt been changed on it yet?
I have no idea. I'll try to ascertain that tomorrow. The lady selling it is doing so for her brother (he moved to Mexico and decided to leave the truck here; he thought he'd bring it down at some point, but didn't-- or so says his sister), so she might not know. We'll see.
You can't tell by looking at it?
Is it a non-interference engine? You could just drive it 'till it breaks, see how far you can go :lol:
Quote from: Raghavan on April 13, 2007, 12:05:46 AM
You can't tell by looking at it?
Uh, it's under a cover, chief. Maybe you should Google "timing belt". ;)
Quote from: Laconian on April 13, 2007, 12:20:44 AM
Is it a non-interference engine? You could just drive it 'till it breaks, see how far you can go :lol:
The mechanic says it is an interference engine, or that's probably what I'd do. :lol:
So, it needs a few things, but nothing critical and nothing non-maintenence. Plugs, air filter, battery (soon), brake/clutch/trans/coolant, power steering fluid flushes, and, unless the timing belt has been replaced, the timing belt. The mechanic can do all that for $700, or just the t-belt for $250. I figure, have the mechanic do the t-belt now-ish, do the stuff I can do myself, and the rest, really just stuff I hate doing-- fluids--, do over the next few months.
Quote from: Psilos on April 13, 2007, 12:03:47 PM
Uh, it's under a cover, chief. Maybe you should Google "timing belt". ;)
Geez, sorry....
See if she can just give you the insurance money and use that for the t-belt. Still, I would let a good deal like that fall through for that, I'd imagine replacing the t-belt wouldn't be too bad (it was $260 for my car, but I'd think it would be a lot easier to do the same job on a rwd truck).
Quote from: Raghavan on April 13, 2007, 10:36:31 PM
Geez, sorry....
Just sayin'... ;)
I guess the thing will be fixed next week and all will be good, which is fine. I asked if she could just get insurance money, but it looks like they want to just pay the body shop directly or something, so it's looking like next week is the time thing.
Mmmm, beers(s)...
So, what's up with your car situation?