Hello All,

I just looked at an '86 420 sel with c.126000 miles that the guy wanted $3k for. KBB for my area is $2650 for "good." The car was quite clean, one family owned and had a stack of maintenance rec's since new, including original window sticker. Car drove well, no tranny slip, but may need some front end work (just a feeling--there was no pulling to any side). Never involved in any accidents. New exhaust two years ago. Sounds good, right?

Bad:

Top end was rebuilt three years ago after timing chain/tensioner failure. Accounted for in main't recs.

Check engine light was on and had black tape covering it. "...haven't been able to fix it." was his reply when asked about it.

Mismatched tires but with good tread.

No a/c or heat - just ambient air blowing through vents.

Moderate transmission fluid leak "..topped off when taken in for oil changes"

Dash temp led inoperative.

Started hard after "sitting for a few days." When started hot, no problems at all.

Very small spot of rust at the front right fender where the bumper meets the wheel well arch --about a 2 sq. in. patch of bubbling. The rest of the car was rust free.

General feeling:

Nice car, but the transmission leak really discouraged me. I offered him $1800 and left it at that. I know this was incredibly low, but I was a little discouraged after noting all the little nit-picky things. Was I being too harsh a critic of a 20 year old car? On thinking about it, I may call tomorrow and offer $2400. At least the car has lots of history.

Your thoughts?

Thank you.