1st Generation Specific (1979-1985) 1979-1985 Discussion including performance modifications and technical support sections

which one should I get??

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Old Sep 5, 2002 | 11:40 PM
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which one should I get??

Hi everyone!

I currently have a 3rd gen and I'm looking for a FB as a commuter. I was just wondering which model I should get if all I want is a good commuter car...

I came across 2 that I'm interested in:

1983 gsl-se 120k $1900
1985 gsl 148k new paint one owner msd on sec $1500

which one is better for my application?

thanks in advance
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Old Sep 5, 2002 | 11:45 PM
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Hmmm. Be a little suspicious of that 83, as they made GSL-SE's only in 84 and 85.

Pcitures of both would be nice.
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Old Sep 5, 2002 | 11:52 PM
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pictures...ummm I can't find them at the moment

but the owner of the 85 gsl said the car looks brand new w/ no dents whatsoever! And the best part is that it's his wife's car. I guess I'm just wondering if the 12a is more reliable than the 13b or what?
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Old Sep 6, 2002 | 12:14 AM
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Cant help you there, i have a 12a currently, and love it, and i'm sellign it to get a 13b gsl/se.

The gsl-se has all around better options, w/ a common bolt pattern (easy to find custom rims for it)
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Old Sep 6, 2002 | 01:03 AM
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The 12A car is apparently more reliable (if nothing stupid happens, like OMP failing or overheating, they seem to last forever), and is easy to make faster than an SE. The motor can be simplified to the point of one vacuum hose, which makes it very easy to work on and diagnose. The 12A cars are lighter (how much so depending on options), which is a big advantage. However, the SE has better brakes, suspension, and bigger motor out of the box.

It's up to you, but as an "enthusiast" car, I would go for the 12A. Just my opinion. This assumes you're willing to modify the car of course; a stock 12A car is not as impressive as the SE, but is a whole lotta fast just waiting to happen.
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Old Sep 6, 2002 | 02:32 PM
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thank you so much! I think I'll go for the 12a since all i want is something to stroll my dog around and when the fd is down...thanks!
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Old Sep 7, 2002 | 07:03 PM
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okay people I found the link to the 83 12a that I was talking about

1983 12A with 118k miles Rebuild done at 95k

what do you think of this one?

Oh and I found another one which is a 1985 gsl-se with approximately the same mileage, it's light brown with some minor problems (side windows need to be pushed in in order to close right, paint scratched up on bumpers)...but it's only $1100

Any advices?
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Old Sep 7, 2002 | 07:06 PM
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The '83 looks very nice, but you will want to test-drive it before you buy it...
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Old Sep 7, 2002 | 08:26 PM
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I'm pro-SE. Fuel injection, a bulletproof engine, great suspension, etc. etc.

Depends on the individual condition of each car though.

As to the window-pushing thing, I had that with both my '83 and '85. Seems to be just a fact of 1st gen ReX power windows.
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