[Healeys] What did I do wrong?

[Oudesluys]

The problem is probably mainly due to the reputation of "restoration" 
work in the Eastern European countries (the former East Block) and 
dealing with their traders. In individual cases like this perfect work 
may have been carried out, but the overall experience from the past is 
not very positive and this reputation will stick for many years to come.
It is very comparable with the situation with cars imported into Europe 
from the US. Many cars are looking perfect initially as they are fixed 
up and very skilfully filled with polyester filler and sprayed over. The 
horrors become evident only after a while when bits of filler drop of, 
when you want to repair some damage or fit some items properly. However 
there are also many individual restorers that deliver perfect work.
As Josef mentioned the best way to go would be Essen or one of the 
bigger classic car shows in the UK, France, Italy, Holland, Belgium, 
Germany where a proper inspection of the vehicle may be possible. 
However this will involve high initial costs for the seller. Also fit 
all items that were standard to the car, like the bumpers.
Kees Oudesluijs
NL