I just got back from looking at the '53 Alpine. I did not buy it, even
though I think the price of $1,200 is a good deal for the car. If someone
is interested, here is what it was. It was a '53 Alpine. The body seemed
very straight, with little signs of significant rust. The engine and trans
had been removed and replaced with a 1600cc Datsun engine and trans (4 on
the floor). However, much was missing: grill, bumpers, front and rear
lower valiences (or are those part of the bumpers?), windshield, hub caps,
the cover over the spare tire compartment and spare tire. The instrument
panel was there, but something seemed wrong. The steering wheel had broken
off of the three arms, but was there. The interior had completely
deteriorated. The seat frames, with wood, were there, with no foam or
covers. The door mechanics seemed to be there. There did not appear to be
any top mechanism. The hood was fully louvered, or is that the way it was
on all cars? The front and rear suspension seemed complete. Oh, and the
Datsun engine had water in the cylinders.
The seller claims someone from England was going to go by and buy it and
ship it back to the UK - where I presume such a rust-free car would fetch
good money.
If it was more complete, and I could get it going with less money and more
blood and sweat, I probably would have made him an offer. If someone tells
me the things that are missing can be obtained without much hassle and
expense, I still might.
Jay
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