Brian,
The way I figure it is: There are two different price schedules for
Spitfires. These are (a) Fully restored cars that bring top dollar
because somebody spent way more than they are selling it for to get it
into that condition. Also included in the top dollar range is the very
rare car that was purchased new and stored all of its life, rendering it
a "new" car.
And (b) The other types are gems in the rough that can be bought for a
song. These are the cars that will take all the money mentioned in (a)
to bring it to the condition stated. The difference in the value of the
"song" is exactly how rough the gems are.
If you are not one of us "hands-on" types that likes to get your hands
dirty, your best bet is to find that extremely nice restoration (or new
old stock) and pay top dollar, thus saving yourself thousands on the
restoration.
On the other hand, if you are type who wants to feel the pride of having
done it yourself, look for a sound body at the best price. These can be
had for $500 or less if you are fortunate and patient.
Good Luck,
Joe
Brian Furgalus wrote:
>
> Well, folks, here I go again. This week I will hopefully be going to go look
> at two Spitfires, one a '75, the other an '80. Both owners have told me that
> the cars are rust-free, and are in VGC. The '75 is yellow, has 65K miles, and
> was repainted three years ago. The rear bumper infill piece and two
> overriders have been removed as well. Interior is said to be good as well. I
> asked on a scale of 1-10, he gave it a seven. On to the '80. The '80 is Red,
> origional paint. The interior is the original Tan Hounstooth, in good
> condition. The car has 35K miles on it(!), and has O/D. I'd be inclined to
> go with the '80, if not for anything but the O/D. The only drawback? He's
> asking $4,000, which I personally think is a tad steep for a Spitfire,
> especially at this time of year. Not to mention my budget precludes any car
> much over $3,000! :) The '75 is $3,200. SO... any ideas on how to get the
> '80's price down? Is that a fair market value? I've been told that $3,000
> TOPS for a nice Spitfire. Hope to hear from you guys soon, I may go see it as
> soon as tomorrow!
>
> Cheers,
> Brian Furgalus
> mowog@usa.net
--
"If you can't excel with talent, triumph with effort."
-- Dave Weinbaum in National Enquirer
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