A very newbie "What's this worth?" type thread.
 

Greetings all!

As may be obvious, I am quite new here (I've still got that fresh newbie smell. No air freshener required! :p). I have been browsing the boards here, as well as the net (including cars101.com), the last few days in my quest to learn all that I can about these cars.

I've researched enough to get a basic idea of what to look for, particularly with the transmission. The trouble I've had thus far is finding enough information to get a solid idea of what these cars are generally worth. So, here I am. :)

The car has close to 166k on it and came with the touring package. I haven't gotten a chance to go see the car in person yet as it's an hour away and I don't even own a car at present. So for the moment, the best I have is what the seller has told me. Of course I repeatedly received the obligatory "runs and drives great" statements. Statements that I take with a grain of salt as I've looked at way too many cars that "ran great". He also told me about how it looks very nice, that the tires are decent (decently flat it turns out :p), and that the interior is in good shape as well. Yeah, I've been told that a few times as well. For example, check out the last Suby I looked at that was in good shape with a few "minor scrapes and dings". It did run well though...

Thankfully, the seller was able to send me some pictures of the SVX. I do wish it was either silver or pearl....

Immediately noticeable, I'm sure, are the accessory Ford Probe GT rims with the rare TTS option (Tires Too Small). Equally noticeable is the high quality, professional tint job. I'm sure that both of these features greatly up the value, but I tend to be a purist. ;)

I was surprised to find that the body actually isn't torn up too badly. The interior is definitely dirty, sun faded, and in need of some work (seam splits, missing covers, etc.). The wear on the passenger seat seems rather odd to me. Also, any ideas on the weird discoloration on the door speaker grille?

Everything is supposedly in working order on the car (but everything always works right over the phone), save the transmission. He told me that it was making noise in AWD, so they put in the bypass fuse.

The VIN check didn't reveal any reported wrecks other issues. The only possible item of note is that it seems to have traded hands a few times and was also auctioned at least twice in the last 7 months (gaining only 27 miles in that time).

I did notice that the fuel filter has apparently been changed. Though I also noticed that the dip stick was not seated properly (blown out by excessive case pressure, or just over looked?), and the block itself looks to be fairly grimy. It was also pointed out to me that the "STOP" sticker on the intake suggests that a k&N filter may be installed - however helpful that might be.

So I've got a car that's been mostly sitting for at least the last 7 months, in need of tires (and stock rims :)), possibly has rear differential or duty solenoid issues (I'd almost bet it doesn't shift quite as smoothly as he claims), possibly in need of a timing belt job, needs that lousy tint removed, and seems to have generally been unwanted and unloved by its last couple of owners. They're initially asking $2550 for it, which I feel is too high a price based on what I've seen and looking at it purely as a car. I'm not sure how to factor in the rarity of the car.

I'll update more once I get a change to actually go see it and drive it.

In the meantime, I welcome any and all input and suggestions.


I also apologize for the long winded post. :D


Thanks!

Re: A very newbie "What's this worth?" type thread.
 

Yes. Sounds like it to me. You can find SVXs in better shape for that price...especially right now. Good luck.

Re: A very newbie "What's this worth?" type thread.
 

Agreed, that's more like $1500 SVX (or less). It will need transmission work, 4 new wheels and tires, not to mention whatever else it needs that they aren't telling you. Judging by their "fix" for the transmission they probably didn't do much maintenance on it. The grimmy engine probably means it needs valve cover gaskets and seals, and to top it off you are not crazy about the color. I say wait on it and keep checking the Craigslist sites around your location. You can usually find one that was loved and in good condition for that price. But it may take some time and patience.

Re: A very newbie "What's this worth?" type thread.
 

These are great cars-provided you get one that has been properly maintained. Don't make my mistake and look at the low price thinking you can fix the small stuff yourself and save some money. Decent cars are out there, with receipts for any service work,etc.It may cost you a little more up front, but may save you a whole bunch in the long run.

Re: A very newbie "What's this worth?" type thread.
 

Well as for the discoloration on the speaker grill, it's rust. I think they all do that. You can just paint it.:D

Re: A very newbie "What's this worth?" type thread.
 

There is a document on "What to look for in a used SVX (link here)" in the How-To Documents that you should read as well. Good luck on your quest. :)

Re: A very newbie "What's this worth?" type thread.
 

10 characters.

Re: A very newbie "What's this worth?" type thread.
 

With regard to your "especially right now" comment, I somewhat disagree with you. There is a VERY strong demand for used cars right now, especially ones below $10,000. I sell cars online for a living, and can attest to this. I am having a very difficult time getting inventory fast enough to keep up with demand.

I think that any reasonable sub $5000 car that isn't selling is probably not being marketed properly. :)

More on this:

http://www.usatoday.com/money/autos/...ar-sales_N.htm

Mike

Re: A very newbie "What's this worth?" type thread.
 

I only based that off of my own observation with not only cars, but other things as well. People are not spending the money they were before.