Ok.. I have been searching for a good 100 series for about a year now. Admittedly Half-heartedly, but I am starting to really hunker down to find one. In that time I think I have researched everything and made lists of what to look for and a list of what I will need to be done to baseline and get vehicle to the best state it can be. I have found two that intregue me, but I thought it best to get the forum's opinion on them. Trying to see if I am making the right choice to either keep looking or jump on one.
One: Interior has been redone and the timing belt, heater T's, and a long list of other maintenance has been done. The issue I have with this one is there is a rust spot on the underside of the rear hatch window on the passenger side. In my mind this is the tip of the iceberg and most likely more issues under weather stripping and window channel. There is also a bubble under paint on the drivers side fender under the A-pillar (this is from a potential clogged drain correct?) I actually walked away from this one, but can't get it out of my head.
Two: Low-ish miles. Asked about timing belt and he has the parts but said his mechanic said it didn't need to be changed at this time. In my mind I would think if you can look at it enough to tell that you are in enough to just go ahead and replace. The parts are there though and can change right away so not a huge deal and can baseline the rest. The real issue is it was hit in a parking lot and has a salvage title. I would have to fix and get a rebuilt title. I just wonder how much this will hurt if I have go to sell. The only damage is a rear bumper needs replaced and a passenger side taillight. Other wise its good. He is only asking $8k so makes me think maybe this could be a good one.
I know there are a lot of other variables to each of these and I have been reading this forum gaining valuable knowledge as far as the engine, drivetrain, suspenion, etc. Just wanted an outside opionion on what you guys think. In a perfect world I would find one from an enthusiast and rest easy. Very hard to do, it seems, in VA. Thank you for your help!
One: Interior has been redone and the timing belt, heater T's, and a long list of other maintenance has been done. The issue I have with this one is there is a rust spot on the underside of the rear hatch window on the passenger side. In my mind this is the tip of the iceberg and most likely more issues under weather stripping and window channel. There is also a bubble under paint on the drivers side fender under the A-pillar (this is from a potential clogged drain correct?) I actually walked away from this one, but can't get it out of my head.
Two: Low-ish miles. Asked about timing belt and he has the parts but said his mechanic said it didn't need to be changed at this time. In my mind I would think if you can look at it enough to tell that you are in enough to just go ahead and replace. The parts are there though and can change right away so not a huge deal and can baseline the rest. The real issue is it was hit in a parking lot and has a salvage title. I would have to fix and get a rebuilt title. I just wonder how much this will hurt if I have go to sell. The only damage is a rear bumper needs replaced and a passenger side taillight. Other wise its good. He is only asking $8k so makes me think maybe this could be a good one.
I know there are a lot of other variables to each of these and I have been reading this forum gaining valuable knowledge as far as the engine, drivetrain, suspenion, etc. Just wanted an outside opionion on what you guys think. In a perfect world I would find one from an enthusiast and rest easy. Very hard to do, it seems, in VA. Thank you for your help!