G
Greg94
Guest
Just purchased my 94' Conv in Dec. 64700 mi, FX3,dual 6way pwr seats, sport seats(perfect cond),new rear tires.Interior and exterior clean.Dealer wanted $23,000 ,I Paid $19500(after 4days of neg).
Some have had questions about C4 prices...
- Thread starter Ken
- Start date
Ah,
Now Greg has brought up 2 schools of thought:
Buy from the dealer or a personal ad?
There are pro's and con's from each:
dealer:
pro's:
possibly a warranty
better mechanical/cosmetic condition
con:
higher price since it's a business
personal ad:
pro's:
lower price
more negotiable
con:
buyer beware
My father even said to me that some people will sell their cars because they're getting a divorce or because of some other unfortunate incident. I'm not endorsing that you go around looking for deals like those, but you take what you can right?
Now Greg has brought up 2 schools of thought:
Buy from the dealer or a personal ad?
There are pro's and con's from each:
dealer:
pro's:
possibly a warranty
better mechanical/cosmetic condition
con:
higher price since it's a business
personal ad:
pro's:
lower price
more negotiable
con:
buyer beware
My father even said to me that some people will sell their cars because they're getting a divorce or because of some other unfortunate incident. I'm not endorsing that you go around looking for deals like those, but you take what you can right?
D
Drewser
Guest
Two more schools
And now for the cliche' fest:
When you buy a used car you are buying someone elses' trouble.
One mans trouble is anothers' treasure.
I personally prefer to buy from an individual for a myriad of reasons. The price is more negotiable, you usually get a more honest version of the cars history and most used car dealers are just this side of lawyers on the scale of liars.
--Drew--
And now for the cliche' fest:
When you buy a used car you are buying someone elses' trouble.
One mans trouble is anothers' treasure.
I personally prefer to buy from an individual for a myriad of reasons. The price is more negotiable, you usually get a more honest version of the cars history and most used car dealers are just this side of lawyers on the scale of liars.
--Drew--
Yeah, some of those used car salesmen can have more pitches than a major leaguer.
It pays to shop around though. Good things come to those who wait.
Guy told me a story few months ago about how back in the early 70's, his older brother bought a big block Vette' from a lady whose son was killed in Vietnam and she didn't want the car sitting there reminding her. Young mans father made him return the car because he thought it would be taking advantage of someone.
In my opinion, C3's and C4's are very affordable. C1's and C2's definitely are not. I think in a few years, the C3's may become out of reach in terms of the used car market and the C4 would naturally follow. Everything shifts, after the C6 debuts, the C5 will be like todays C4, affordable!
It pays to shop around though. Good things come to those who wait.
Guy told me a story few months ago about how back in the early 70's, his older brother bought a big block Vette' from a lady whose son was killed in Vietnam and she didn't want the car sitting there reminding her. Young mans father made him return the car because he thought it would be taking advantage of someone.
In my opinion, C3's and C4's are very affordable. C1's and C2's definitely are not. I think in a few years, the C3's may become out of reach in terms of the used car market and the C4 would naturally follow. Everything shifts, after the C6 debuts, the C5 will be like todays C4, affordable!
maxrevs85
Well-known member
I agree, its a cycle that repeats itself. Like they say in the land down under, " No worries mate" ( my new sister-in -law is from australia 2yrs ago).
But what bugs me is the price the venders are charging for parts. Way out of line !!! About $2500 to redo a complete chassis with brakes ,STOCK, and thats only the bushings, springs ,joints, steering. Its a good thing we can buy the cars cheap. Big tube TPI runners $475 for curved tubing and flanges. $280 for a bigger throttle body and you have to give them yours!!!! :L. ....OK I'm done b**chin.
But what bugs me is the price the venders are charging for parts. Way out of line !!! About $2500 to redo a complete chassis with brakes ,STOCK, and thats only the bushings, springs ,joints, steering. Its a good thing we can buy the cars cheap. Big tube TPI runners $475 for curved tubing and flanges. $280 for a bigger throttle body and you have to give them yours!!!! :L. ....OK I'm done b**chin.
69MyWay
Well-known member
A good friend and co-worker of mine rebuilds wrecked cars. He always laughs at me for hauling home old junk cars and messing around with anything more than five years old. He gets a kick out of my projects like the V8 Fiero, V8 S-10, etc. but has pointed out something very important to me.
You see, he has shown me the truth about the cost of parts. It really costs just as much to put a 1999 Ford Explorer back together as it does a 1994 (less the availablity of used parts). However, there is a $7,000 difference in ACV.
The same applies to the C4 cars. Apples to apples, weatherstrips, hinges, interior parts, etc. cost the same for a 84 as a 96, but a 96 is worth more money. It is not cost effective to really restore or invest much into an older C4 if you count the cost.
If you enjoy the car, it does not matter what you spend, just don't expect to get it out in return.
You see, he has shown me the truth about the cost of parts. It really costs just as much to put a 1999 Ford Explorer back together as it does a 1994 (less the availablity of used parts). However, there is a $7,000 difference in ACV.
The same applies to the C4 cars. Apples to apples, weatherstrips, hinges, interior parts, etc. cost the same for a 84 as a 96, but a 96 is worth more money. It is not cost effective to really restore or invest much into an older C4 if you count the cost.
If you enjoy the car, it does not matter what you spend, just don't expect to get it out in return.
- Thread starter
- #27
Ken
Gone but not forgotten
I don't know about the rest of you guys, but I'm not into this "hobby" as an investment at all. If you love the end product, it doesn't matter if it's a new vehicle or an older vehicle, you do it, be it personalization, customizing, hot rodding, original restoration, whatever, just because you have the need to do it, not to make money. I think Chris understands this feeling. 
I know that I have more money in my Corvette than any rational person would even consider, but I'm obsessed with cars and always have been, and now that I'm able to afford it, I'm finally building mine the way I want. Money be damned!
Of course, not being burdened with a wife, children, girlfriends, friends, having a life... This allows me to be as foolish and as foolhardy with my money as I can be with my Corvette.
_ken :Silly
I know that I have more money in my Corvette than any rational person would even consider, but I'm obsessed with cars and always have been, and now that I'm able to afford it, I'm finally building mine the way I want. Money be damned!
Of course, not being burdened with a wife, children, girlfriends, friends, having a life... This allows me to be as foolish and as foolhardy with my money as I can be with my Corvette.
_ken :Silly
To me, it's about the pride that you have of not only driving a nice car, but being part of the process to make it nice. It's like learning a song on the guitar and playing it for people; you're proud of your accomplishment.
I'll be the first to admit that my 88' isn't worth much, but I don't plan on selling it so value doesn't matter. I'm going to drive it until it falls apart and then I'm going to put it back together and drive it some more.
I'm either getting a C3 or 1990-91 C4 6-speed next. Hopefully, it will be by the end of the year. Most of those cars aren't worth that much, but I don't care about that; I just want to drive a nice Corvette.
I'll be the first to admit that my 88' isn't worth much, but I don't plan on selling it so value doesn't matter. I'm going to drive it until it falls apart and then I'm going to put it back together and drive it some more.
I'm either getting a C3 or 1990-91 C4 6-speed next. Hopefully, it will be by the end of the year. Most of those cars aren't worth that much, but I don't care about that; I just want to drive a nice Corvette.
- Thread starter
- #29
Ken
Gone but not forgotten
BullWinkle said:
maxrevs85
Well-known member
In would like to have all the money ,in one pile, that I have spent on racing, restoring cars and hot rodding them. Cause then I could spend it all on the Vette that I have now and whip both Chris and Kens car !!! 
:L:L
But seriously folks ,Id do it all over again. :crazy
:L:LBut seriously folks ,Id do it all over again. :crazy
D
Drewser
Guest
Hobby vs. business
When I'm repairing a lock, I sometimes get to a point where it isn't cost effective to repair it, you just replace it. To go any farther would be crossing the line between working on it to make money and working on it just for the sheer pleasure...makeing it a hobby. Vette ownership is kinda like that. If you are in this to make a living you just might starve, but if you are doing it for the sheer pleasure you just might end up happy. I bought my vette with an eye to keep it and drive it...to enjoy it, but NOT to make a profit on it. I could have sold it for more than I bought it for the first week, or maybe even now, but that is not my aim.
I did ask the question regarding price and a ZR1, if it would hold it's value. I want one to drive but I don't want to take a bath on one while I'm doing it. I guess even with a hobby you have to draw the line somewhere.
--Drew
When I'm repairing a lock, I sometimes get to a point where it isn't cost effective to repair it, you just replace it. To go any farther would be crossing the line between working on it to make money and working on it just for the sheer pleasure...makeing it a hobby. Vette ownership is kinda like that. If you are in this to make a living you just might starve, but if you are doing it for the sheer pleasure you just might end up happy. I bought my vette with an eye to keep it and drive it...to enjoy it, but NOT to make a profit on it. I could have sold it for more than I bought it for the first week, or maybe even now, but that is not my aim.
I did ask the question regarding price and a ZR1, if it would hold it's value. I want one to drive but I don't want to take a bath on one while I'm doing it. I guess even with a hobby you have to draw the line somewhere.
--Drew
maxrevs85 said:
Actually, I think the prices are quite reasonable. I'd recently been looking at Subaru aftermarket stuff, and it's $$$$. Much of the good stuff has to come from Japan or Australia, so shipping is horrendous on top of the base cost. Turbo kit will run you upwards of $3500. Rear adjustable sway bar - $200. Decent brake rotors - $180 EACH. Undredrive pulley (ONE!) is $160 for a cheap one. I can get a two piece set for the Vette for less than that.
And be glad you have such a large aftermarket to choose from...
[RICHR]
maxrevs85
Well-known member
It doesnt surprise me that a turbo kit for a Suburu would cost $3500, its not exactly an everyday sought after part. I would expect the same for a BMW, or Volvo,Saab etc....But I'm talking about an american made car . I have bought many specialty parts for many USA cars. I believe that alot of the parts for Corvettes are over priced. It's just one of them facts of life.What ever the market can bear is what I think they say. Regardless ,it's what I will have to pay if I want it and Ive made my choice in buying the Vette. The corvette is a special car and you will pay accordingly, same with buying parts for a Caddie or a Lincoln.
The high performance stuff is definitely high priced. But stock replacement items are somewhat reasonable. I have a Camry and the parts for that are ridiculous; like $120 for a O2 sensor!
I looked in the Eckler's catalog and they wanted $49.99 for a Corvette O2 sensor; compared with $30.00 at Pep Boys. I try to stay away from Eckler's and get whatever I can locally.
eBay is a great alternative because a lot of people on there strip cars for a living and that's all they do.
I looked in the Eckler's catalog and they wanted $49.99 for a Corvette O2 sensor; compared with $30.00 at Pep Boys. I try to stay away from Eckler's and get whatever I can locally.
eBay is a great alternative because a lot of people on there strip cars for a living and that's all they do.
P
Phillip Russell
Guest
I purchased my '88 Z51 a year ago for 7K, thought I got a good buy as four speeds are not real common, and I GOTTA have a stick in a 'Vette ! I've only spent a little on maintenance that I had to (car had 120K on it), such as brakes, a GOOD tune up and tires (previous owner had wrong size on it), rebuilding the antenna, and headlight motors. The body has one damaged spot above the rear tire, and the paint is in fair condition. Over all I'm happy with my toy.:J
J
Jim F. Garrett
Guest
Money & Corvettes ...
Some thoughts (doubtless none original) re this thread:
Trend for Corvette prices is almost assuredly going to continue
upward. (Good news for current owners: legislators at NO levels
have been able to repeal/amend/or otherwise screw up the law
of supply and demand.)
Buying from private owners vs. dealers? Each group is a microcosm of humanity...so, expect to find both saints and sinners. If you trust yourself to spot the flaws & problems,
there are plenty of sources available (these forums being
the best) to get you "grounded" as to a fair/good price.
Multiply those numbers by coefficient of "want" and you get
the price YOU will pay. In my case, that always seems well
above market...but I DON'T CARE if I get what I want
Adopt the following pricing philosophy and you can:
1) have the 'Vette you want!
2) avoid any/all buyer remorse.
It's worth whatever I'm prepared to pay based upon how badly
I want it.
Some thoughts (doubtless none original) re this thread:
Trend for Corvette prices is almost assuredly going to continue
upward. (Good news for current owners: legislators at NO levels
have been able to repeal/amend/or otherwise screw up the law
of supply and demand.)
Buying from private owners vs. dealers? Each group is a microcosm of humanity...so, expect to find both saints and sinners. If you trust yourself to spot the flaws & problems,
there are plenty of sources available (these forums being
the best) to get you "grounded" as to a fair/good price.
Multiply those numbers by coefficient of "want" and you get
the price YOU will pay. In my case, that always seems well
above market...but I DON'T CARE if I get what I want
Adopt the following pricing philosophy and you can:
1) have the 'Vette you want!
2) avoid any/all buyer remorse.
It's worth whatever I'm prepared to pay based upon how badly
I want it.
maxrevs85 said:
You hang out on the wrong bulletin boards
They're highly sought after in the right circles.My point is kinda that for $3500 you can get an entire Vette engine, modified. Even a JDM (Japanese Domestic Manufacture) turbo Subaru engine costs megabucks. Part of it *is* the demand - which is what I'm saying... compared to the alternatives, our performance parts are quite reasonable. Sure, we'd all like to have 454 stroker engines for $1200 installed but it ain't gonna happen.
[RICHR]
The "compact sport" market is getting big and my uncle says it's especially big in CA. Is it that big in CA? I've never been out to CA, but I'd assume that the compact cars are big with the Asian guys.
The demand for those parts is getting up there now along with Mustangs and Vette's. Those little cars are cheaper so parts in general, you would think, would be cheaper. But with it being Japanese and all, everything those guys make is expensive; but the quality is definitely there.
The demand for those parts is getting up there now along with Mustangs and Vette's. Those little cars are cheaper so parts in general, you would think, would be cheaper. But with it being Japanese and all, everything those guys make is expensive; but the quality is definitely there.
maxrevs85
Well-known member
I realize the import performance market is huge nowadays. I dont visit the messagae boards because , quite honestly, am not the least bit interested. I do know they are building some very fast machines. But there is somthing about a 4 cylinder car winding 9000 rpms that just doesnt doit for me. :eek Now, a 350 chev doing 9grand, thats music!! I guess my point is ,as an enthusiast of american muscle, I find it harder and harder to afford the hobby. But if ya wanna play ,you gotta pay
I guess my point is ,as an enthusiast of american muscle, I find it harder and harder to afford the hobby. But if ya wanna play ,you gotta pay
T
TopDown94
Guest
Vette Prices
Here is the scoop on pricing any thing your wanting to buy......SEEK AND YE SHALL FIND. I have had some of the people on this forum here at my home in Conroe, Texas (hey Dorathy). They have seen several of the cars in my personal car collection, and none of them cost me over 5000.00......period....thats my limit on the cars for my collection. I own the Lone Rangers 56 Caddy, a 1957 Vette Conv., 1923 Oakland Coup, ...among others. I just recently aquired the Vette I have now, that is my daily driver, a 1994 Convette Convertilbe.....yep....a Roadster.....for $12,000.00..... with only 60K miles on it.....The car books for NADA 21K !!!. Being I wanted a nice one, obviously, I had to pay more than 5K for one....DUH.....but I dern sure didnt pay anything close to book.....nor would I have. I would have just kept on looking.....till I found it.
The deals ARE out there.....you just have to look for them. But no matter what your price range, NEVER EVER settle for LESS than you want. Don't let the panic of "letting one slip away" force you to make a bad....or in the case of Vettes....an expensive mistake.
RIKO
Here is the scoop on pricing any thing your wanting to buy......SEEK AND YE SHALL FIND. I have had some of the people on this forum here at my home in Conroe, Texas (hey Dorathy). They have seen several of the cars in my personal car collection, and none of them cost me over 5000.00......period....thats my limit on the cars for my collection. I own the Lone Rangers 56 Caddy, a 1957 Vette Conv., 1923 Oakland Coup, ...among others. I just recently aquired the Vette I have now, that is my daily driver, a 1994 Convette Convertilbe.....yep....a Roadster.....for $12,000.00..... with only 60K miles on it.....The car books for NADA 21K !!!. Being I wanted a nice one, obviously, I had to pay more than 5K for one....DUH.....but I dern sure didnt pay anything close to book.....nor would I have. I would have just kept on looking.....till I found it.
The deals ARE out there.....you just have to look for them. But no matter what your price range, NEVER EVER settle for LESS than you want. Don't let the panic of "letting one slip away" force you to make a bad....or in the case of Vettes....an expensive mistake.
RIKO
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