So I found a vehicle that so far, merits further looking into. Here are some numbers for you. Just over 20k miles, 2001 model year, asking price just under 45k. According to the seller, the car is flawless, and from the pictures I've seen thus far, there is no reason to doubt that.

One hurdle I have is the car is on the opposite side of the country from me. What are some reasonable requests for info I should make to the seller before committing myself to a trip out in person? for a 2001 with that mileage and all else checking out as good to go, does that price sound right?

Thanks very much for any help/tips you can provide, if more info from me would be helpful please let me know and I'll do my best to get it.

Justin

 

If it's a 6 speed, make sure the second gear pop-out has been addressed. That's my .02

 

Yep, 2nd gear pop out seems to be the biggie as far as expense to fix - I think it takes a new tranny...

Also check for rear spoiler hydraulic problems - rear spoiler goes up and down via this and some have issues with leaks, etc.

Ask about any mods, etc.

Definitely get a PPI (pre-purchase inspection) done. Post the link the the car and someone may know the car and have some insight. Also, someone here may be able to do a quick look for you to check it out before you spend a lot of time and $$$ to fly out.

Good buying!

 

get a leakdown and compression test also

 

Thanks for the tips guys.

It is a six speed and having that checked is indeed on my list, I'll make sure to ask directly about it, as well as have it verified by an independent shop before I make any purchasing decisions.

I would love to have a PPI done along with any other checks done before I spend the time/money to go out there, I am just not sure if that is standard protocol or not. Here is a link to the vehicle itself.

Not quite to the point of needing this just yet but, if there is anyone in the area who knows the car or would be willing to do a visual inspection that would be very much appreciated: )

Thanks guys,

Justin

 

Nice looking car! I really like the tan interior.

 

Well that pretty much settles it then! LOL but seriously, I am also a fan, hope the seller can provide me with some useful information regarding the issues we discussed here. I am bad at waiting...guess I'll go do some yard work while its still light outside: )

Justin

 

I honestly think the 2nd gear pop out was not as significant as it has been made to seem on this board. See if the gear shifter pops out while coasting downhill in second, otherwise you're good. If there was an issue it's probably been repaired or is not going to pop out

My advice: get an X50 option or TurboS and you're on your way to 600 HP. Sport seats are nice too.

 

Thanks Ari, X50 and TurboS are one and the same correct?

Justin

 

OK, so... the seller is a dealer. Assume everything he says is a lie. Or he swears there is 'no issue' because he actually hasn't looked. That 90 day warranty is probably a joke, especially when you are 3k miles away!

X50 is NOT a "Turbo S"... a turboS was the 2005 model year and included the X50 turbo upgrade and PCCBs as stock options. So X50 is larger turbos (and differnet intercoolers and programming). This option was available on any model year.

With X50 (this is the K24 sized turbo) you can add $5k worth of mods and have a pretty quick car.

1. Have someone do a driveby
2. Cut a deal, with a binding contract
3. Pay for a PPI with a qualified shop, Define what is in the PPI and how it will be done. Perhaps have it done in two stages, only paying for the expensive compression/leakdown if the first half looks good.
4. Fly out and buy it.

GL

A

 

Hands down one of the most to the point thorough responses to a question asked by me on a forum ever. Thank you!

Justin

 

go for an '02 or newer. They can be found in that price range - and you should be able to get the X-50 package. I wish I had been as smarts as you.

 

I dont think the 2001's have any down sides... The 2002 - on have a glove box and cup holders and come standard with the Bose speakers and have matte dash buttons (01's have shiny). Other than that, they are the same... It has pretty low miles and I think you can negotiate down a little...

 

Thanks Ken. What was the major change in '02 that makes you suggest this? Carlsbad huh, I used to work right off the Legoland exit, unfortunately that's the only landmark I can recall.

Justin

 

...and I should have read the next post before my last reply. So no major differences it sounds like. Thanks!