Why is buying a Spider so hard?

[kbee00]

I think the reason CL is a crappy place to buy/sell is that neither the buyer or the seller has any skin in the game. Without that, it is the wild wild west. Frankly, I don't have the time to deal with those that are not serious. Although the inventor of CL probably had good intentions, the ramifications of "free" have resulted in the product you see today.

I think CL would do better to charge a fee - even very nominal. The sellers may not be happy - but it would keep the teenager selling his brothers record collection off the site and the buyers would be very happy knowing a high percentage of the sellers were real. Still have to sort thru some crap, but I would think it would be much better than today.

Just my 2cents worth......

[ecohen]

I have a 1971 Spider 124 1600 that I am ready to get rid of. Runs fine and has a sticker that expired in June. Need a lot of cosmetic stuff. Has about 74000 original miles or so (currently out getting sticker so i will have to confirm actual mileage). I am second owner as of this year. Have original title nad new title. Please contact me if interested.

[pluktv]

I think I would have to pass on that for $3000. AS previously mentioned you`re looking at $1500 for a new transmission or repair. Even a half decent paint job is gonna be at LEAST a grand. This is without all the other heartache, issues and expense that will probably keep you off the road for the rest of the year anyway.

It sounds like exactly the situation I was in earlier this year, a fixer upper (no huge issues but who knows?) for $3000 obo or a really nice one for $5000. I am so glad I went for the more expensive option, simply because I am enjoying it right now and not next year. Phil

[supplyguy]

I may have gotten the best of both worlds - bought a '71 off ebay for $3000, and with John Erskine and G&S Automotive's help it appears to be a solid driver. Almost no rust, known mechanical fixes and history, and no known major repairs needed.Of course, since then I see nicer cars available for under $5k!

[pluktv]

Guaranteed You`ll see tons of `em available now all cheaper, just down the road and better condition!

My advice is don`t look, turn away and be happy with wot you got!!

[NJFIAT1981]

If John blessed it you should be good to go. Good luck with it.