Jim:
I agree with your sentiments. I looked at about a dozen or more TR6's a
little over a year ago. Price ranges all over the place. I knew what I
wanted, but more importantly I knew what I didn't want. When I narrowed it
all down and did the numbers (although I have learned this list doesn't like
numbers), the less expensive cars were going to cost more than I wanted to
spend to get them where I wanted to be.
Right when I had given up looking, I was tipped off about a TR6 with 6,057
original miles. The car was 100% original down to the tires. While I paid
top dollar ($15,000), my problems have been few. The only real problem I
have had was a bad master cylinder. The rest has been preventative (hoses,
belts, etc.) and cosmetic (clean up, polish, etc.).
I had no interest in endless nights working on a rusted hulk, or incurring
large bills for outside work. I have been declared impassionate about TR's
and a rank TR amateur by the list (see TRF dialogue), but for my money I
have a TR6 that has won 1st place in the two shows I attended and a car that
gave me a little over 3,000 miles of recreation.
I am not slamming those who wish to rework a car. In a way I wish I had the
knowledge, time, money and guts to do it. Different strokes for different
folks.
If that guy spent $21,500 on a turn key "perfect" car that he wanted, more
power to him. I bought my TR6 because I always wanted one from my high
school/college days but couldn't afford one. Now, $15,000 for exactly what
I want is a better deal than a 1999 comparable offering. If I keep the car
10,20,30 years was the $15,000 the right price?
Truth is, if the TR6 market were to pick up, those who slam the guy would
benefit.
Can't wait to see who I offended (cause none was intended........).
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