Read this carefully before you scream "run away."

A friend who buys and rebuilds salvage vehicles bought a red 5spd '93 with 41k miles. It has a salvage flood title, but absolutely no sign of water damage. The engine was toast, but the turbos are fine and there was no evidence of the engine ingesting water. Basically we think the prior owner pulled an insurance scam during the local Houston floods to get face value for his/her already broken FD. My friend has now replaced the engine (Mazda delaership rebuild) and clutch. The car is in cherry condition except for some wear on the driver's leather seat, and a replaced driver's fender (no evidence of a crash, likely just a fender bender by the PO). I trust my friend, he is completely honest and I inspected the car when he first got it.

Bottom line: It's mine for $11k if I want it. I've wanted an FD since '93, and forsee keeping it for a while. So waddya think...Buy it or keep looking?

Thanks,
Chris

 

no no, for god sakes no, for 11k, you can get a running one!!!

 

It has a new factory rebuild motor. He also put in a new factory clutch.

 

oh, hmmm it might be ok then... personnaly i would never drive a salvaged car at 140+mph...

 

Well if it's in the exact condition you say it's in, then go for it! It's hard to find a working fd for $11k. Even if it is, it's ready to blow and has a bit more than minor wear in/out. Retail private for these cars goes for a bit over $15k. But, that's in really good condition with a squeaky clean title. Add $1k-2k for dealer retail. Anyone smart will sell them at or above retail value. Just make sure you think it was a scam and the car really wasn't in a flood. It could have rust all on the inside if it has. Btw, how much did your friend buy it for? If he bought for way less... i'd be skeptical. Another thing, when you do decide to sell it (remember this car is an investment) you will get cents to the dollar for what you paid for it now. People won't wanna buy a flood salvaged car right? If you have $11k already why not wait a while and save at least another $4k and get one in great condition with a clean title (pride of owndership).

Just food for thought.

-HeX

 

Definately put the car on jack stands or on a lift to check out the underside of the car. Also check the metal under the interior carpet for signs of rust.

 

I don't think you're getting that great a deal. Despite the mileage, if you ever do want to sell it you're going to take a bath because of the marred title. Spend 13-14K and get a clean title. You can find some good deals this time of year if you have patience.

If the thing was underwater, there are other parts that could have suffered. Check the tranny and diff fluids and also look for condensation inside the headlight and taillight lenses. If it has been hit before, look for signs of uneven tire wear; I'd pay to have the alignment checked before buying too.

 

I would be extremely hesitant. I don't believe an insurance co. would just hand over cash for the vehicle without an inspection. This is not to say you friend is trying to "pull" a fast one, he may think are no problems with the car. I would need to inspect it very closely, esp. in the areas not visible-Inside doors for one, under carpeting etc. And don't forget about the salvage title, which you'll always have. If you want to be deceitful, you could always take it to 1 of the few states which will allow you to get a regular title.
Good Luck

 

i wouldnt get it due to the fact of trying to resell it. i have never seen a bad titled car sell for more than 10k. i would save a little money and buy a clean titled car. if you are not looking to ever sell the car then 11k is an ok price.i will have 2 clean titled 5spd FDs for sell in the next week or so. email me if interested.---j

 

As was said, check your insurance co. Some companies may not insure a salvage/flood title car (it being an FD is bad enough already, hehe).

 

I got my 5 speed for 10k with 134k miles, spanking new turbos and a new clutch. The car had some boost problems but nothing a dp couldn't fix.

She's in the shop right now getting a motor rebuilt, but I think my car is well worth what I payed for it.

 

If you have the time, investigate what happened to the car. Maybe contact the prior owner, or the insurance company that totalled it.

A salvaged title will cause you problems down the road. If you plan on keeping the car at least 5 years, it shouldn't be a big deal. If you want the car, negotiate a better price from your "friend". He's not giving you a great deal.

Adam

 

unless it's clean title, i don't think it's worth $11k even if it's got a good motor. you can do better than.