Casting the net... loooking for a decent 914
06-04-2014, 12:30 PM
#76
Yep... see it now. Looks like whatever holds it on to the bumper is either very loose or possibly missing. I've been following these posts in an effort to gain enough knowledge to find one of these I can have fun with as a weekend driver.
Good luck with your journey.
Gary
Good luck with your journey.
Gary
06-05-2014, 10:57 PM
#77
Race Director
Thread Starter
OK, all, I have information on the orange 914 posted above, and I plan to go up to Pasadena and look at the car this Sunday, so I need responses quick, stat, pronto, ASAP, with all due haste, etc.
I sent the seller an email with a bunch of itemized questions. I got back a reply that answers most, but not all, of my questions. Please remember that his is a good friend of a good friend of mine, so is not likely "hiding" any information.
Here's what he says about the car:
**************************************************
> It is, a 1970 1.7, I have owned it since 2005, I don't have any history other than I bought it from a guy in PDX, who had plans of building a V8 conversion 914, and decided that this one was better left unmolested.
> all the mechanicals work, but the horn wiring needs attention, battery tray is solid, and there are no rust issues save for a couple of non structural spots, ,yes the car was repainted, and there is evidence of an older high quality repair in the front, (probably from the seventies)
> It has been converted to a side shift trans,
> The lower bumper trays aren't damaged, the attachment hardware on those always loosens and they just need minor attention.
> And I would recommend replacing the fan belt as its been there since I replaced it in 05, tires are also older, and there is a fifth 2.0 alloy along with the steel wheeled spare,
> Regarding seals (doors, window, etc.): Mostly 44yr old originals but not crumbly.
The top is good, but the tops on all 914s leak I've owned several over thirty years and not one has ever completely sealed.
> I am asking 11,500
**************************************************
So, given the above, please weigh in. All opinions welcome. I will consider them carefully before I make any final decisions on this car, but I hope to soon be joining the ranks of all the folks that figured out how nifty 914s are long before I did.
Much appreciated!
I sent the seller an email with a bunch of itemized questions. I got back a reply that answers most, but not all, of my questions. Please remember that his is a good friend of a good friend of mine, so is not likely "hiding" any information.
Here's what he says about the car:
**************************************************
> It is, a 1970 1.7, I have owned it since 2005, I don't have any history other than I bought it from a guy in PDX, who had plans of building a V8 conversion 914, and decided that this one was better left unmolested.
> all the mechanicals work, but the horn wiring needs attention, battery tray is solid, and there are no rust issues save for a couple of non structural spots, ,yes the car was repainted, and there is evidence of an older high quality repair in the front, (probably from the seventies)
> It has been converted to a side shift trans,
> The lower bumper trays aren't damaged, the attachment hardware on those always loosens and they just need minor attention.
> And I would recommend replacing the fan belt as its been there since I replaced it in 05, tires are also older, and there is a fifth 2.0 alloy along with the steel wheeled spare,
> Regarding seals (doors, window, etc.): Mostly 44yr old originals but not crumbly.
The top is good, but the tops on all 914s leak I've owned several over thirty years and not one has ever completely sealed.
> I am asking 11,500
**************************************************
So, given the above, please weigh in. All opinions welcome. I will consider them carefully before I make any final decisions on this car, but I hope to soon be joining the ranks of all the folks that figured out how nifty 914s are long before I did.
Much appreciated!
06-05-2014, 11:56 PM
#78
Official Wednesday AM Red Bull F1 test driver
Rennlist Member
Rennlist Member
What is engine again? If it's a stock 1.7, 11,500 seems high for a '71 unless it was perfect.
I think Jay Grattan always is considering selling his nearly perfect '73 1.7 but price would be consistent with condition- PM him.
I think Jay Grattan always is considering selling his nearly perfect '73 1.7 but price would be consistent with condition- PM him.
06-06-2014, 12:18 AM
#79
Race Director
Thread Starter
Where does Jay live?
1970, not 71. (of course, there's really not much difference, and this car has been converted to side-shift already)
I'm hoping to settle on 10K, hard green cash, $100 bills, to swing the deal.
My 914 fund:
.
1970, not 71. (of course, there's really not much difference, and this car has been converted to side-shift already)
I'm hoping to settle on 10K, hard green cash, $100 bills, to swing the deal.
My 914 fund:
.
06-06-2014, 04:11 AM
#81
Race Director
Thread Starter
^^^ It's no use, I'll just kidnap for ransom that lizard or iguana or whatever that creature is in your garage.
06-06-2014, 03:19 PM
#82
Official Wednesday AM Red Bull F1 test driver
Rennlist Member
Rennlist Member
Jay lives on east coast- he's been an old timer on this board, just a little quiet lately...
Hope your deal works out- look forward to pictures etc
Hope your deal works out- look forward to pictures etc
06-10-2014, 12:18 AM
#84
Race Director
Thread Starter
I looked at two 914s this weekend, up in Los Angeles
I'll post pix and a write-up about them when I get a chance.
Here's the short version:
1. Car #1: '73 2.0, very nice car. Very clean. About as rust-free as you can imagine. A lot of grease or oil on the transmission housing... I couldn't figure out where it cam from, or if it was from an old leak, or what (no drips on the ground). Seriously! But salvage title, and in my opinion owner wanted much more than I want to pay for that issue. The salvage was issued for something minor, but I think it really diminished the value anyway. If he had been willing to negotiate a bit more on price, I would have bought it.
2. Car #2: '70 1.7: Not quite as clean as I had hoped. I really want later than 1970, but if it had been a bit more pristine, I would have bought it. Also, seller was asking too much for the car, considering it's condition, in my opinion.
Both sellers were very nice folks, and I wish them well with the sales. They were both very honest people. The cars just weren't quite what I want for the money.
OK, I am looking at two 914's now.
Car 1 - 1974 1.8, Silver:
This is REALLY odd: This morning, a friend sent me a Craig's list link for a local yard sale. Buried in the yard sale ad is mention of a 1974 Porsche 914!!!! There was no phone number or anything else, but the address is about a mile from my house. So, I drove over this afternoon, and there's the car parked out front!
I called the phone number on a "4 sale" sign posted on the car. A short while later, the seller's wife shows up, driving a beautiful Karmann Ghia. They have several other classic VWs parked at the house.
Here's the poop on the car: 1974 1.8 One-owner car they recently bought. They lent me the records, a 3-inch binder. It has EVERY record from Day 1, including the bill of sale from July 12, 1974. Every oil change was done on time, every 3,000 miles. The car was serviced regularly at a very reputable Porsche shop here in San Diego. Then, in 1988, the car was hit. The owners, one aged 69 and one aged 74, were injured. They got a $60,000 pay-out from insurance, and the car was totaled. It was then completely rebuilt. EVERY receipt is there for all of the work. Of course, now it has a salvage title.
I drove the car.. it runs great. Interior is very clean. Very little rust anywhere.
So: here's the thing: It is some things I said I DIDN't want: no appearance group, it's silver, it's a 1.8, it has a salvage title. But, I still MIGHT buy it, depending on if seller will negotiate on price. It's very clean, drives wonderfully, has documentation beyond what anyone could want, and is within walking distance from here. He's asking $6,200. I'm willing to pay $3,500, or maybe $4,000 tops. Then, I will have a very nice toy for a very low cost.
EDIT UPDATE: After sorting through the paperwork, looks like after the 1987 accident, it was stored for 10 years, then rebuilt in 1997. The save my fingers from retyping, here's from my post on 914 world:
Car #2: - 1975 1.8, Silver:
The car's price is fantastic, and it seems to be in excellent condition. I'm trying to figure out why so cheap:
.
I'll post pix and a write-up about them when I get a chance.
Here's the short version:
1. Car #1: '73 2.0, very nice car. Very clean. About as rust-free as you can imagine. A lot of grease or oil on the transmission housing... I couldn't figure out where it cam from, or if it was from an old leak, or what (no drips on the ground). Seriously! But salvage title, and in my opinion owner wanted much more than I want to pay for that issue. The salvage was issued for something minor, but I think it really diminished the value anyway. If he had been willing to negotiate a bit more on price, I would have bought it.
2. Car #2: '70 1.7: Not quite as clean as I had hoped. I really want later than 1970, but if it had been a bit more pristine, I would have bought it. Also, seller was asking too much for the car, considering it's condition, in my opinion.
Both sellers were very nice folks, and I wish them well with the sales. They were both very honest people. The cars just weren't quite what I want for the money.
OK, I am looking at two 914's now.
Car 1 - 1974 1.8, Silver:
This is REALLY odd: This morning, a friend sent me a Craig's list link for a local yard sale. Buried in the yard sale ad is mention of a 1974 Porsche 914!!!! There was no phone number or anything else, but the address is about a mile from my house. So, I drove over this afternoon, and there's the car parked out front!
I called the phone number on a "4 sale" sign posted on the car. A short while later, the seller's wife shows up, driving a beautiful Karmann Ghia. They have several other classic VWs parked at the house.
Here's the poop on the car: 1974 1.8 One-owner car they recently bought. They lent me the records, a 3-inch binder. It has EVERY record from Day 1, including the bill of sale from July 12, 1974. Every oil change was done on time, every 3,000 miles. The car was serviced regularly at a very reputable Porsche shop here in San Diego. Then, in 1988, the car was hit. The owners, one aged 69 and one aged 74, were injured. They got a $60,000 pay-out from insurance, and the car was totaled. It was then completely rebuilt. EVERY receipt is there for all of the work. Of course, now it has a salvage title.
I drove the car.. it runs great. Interior is very clean. Very little rust anywhere.
So: here's the thing: It is some things I said I DIDN't want: no appearance group, it's silver, it's a 1.8, it has a salvage title. But, I still MIGHT buy it, depending on if seller will negotiate on price. It's very clean, drives wonderfully, has documentation beyond what anyone could want, and is within walking distance from here. He's asking $6,200. I'm willing to pay $3,500, or maybe $4,000 tops. Then, I will have a very nice toy for a very low cost.
EDIT UPDATE: After sorting through the paperwork, looks like after the 1987 accident, it was stored for 10 years, then rebuilt in 1997. The save my fingers from retyping, here's from my post on 914 world:
Ah, the car is a 1974!! The car was purchased new on July 12, 1974. Mesa Porsche, La Mesa, CA. 1968 Dodge Charger taken as trade-in. Total price including tax: $6,400.69.
(The radio was a $150 option they added but it has FM!!! smile.gif).
Looks like front was hit. There are legal documents for their settlement that detail injuries, but nothing that describes the accident.
The 1988 Allstate adjustor estimated required repairs at $3,974, and therefore declared it a total loss.
Here's a summary of the main parts listed in the estimate:
front bumper (and all associated parts like spoiler, lights, supports, etc.)
Front hood
L/& R fenders: repaired/aligned.
Car condition on the 1988 insurance appraisal listed as "good". Letter from Dieter's Porsche in San Diego stating that the car was regularly serviced there and in above average condition at the time of the accident. Receipts support this.
The original owners of the car bought it back from the insurance company.
As far as I can tell from the mountain of paperwork, the owner then stored the car until 1997, when the engine was pulled, sent to Mark Stephens High Performance of Tehachapi, CA. completely torn down, and rebuilt. New clutch at that time too.
There are receipts for work totalling $4,655.12, dated 12/9/1997, which correspond to the work that was needed per the 1988 insurance estimate. Very odd. All work was done by European Auto Body, a Porsche body repair specialist.
(The radio was a $150 option they added but it has FM!!! smile.gif).
Looks like front was hit. There are legal documents for their settlement that detail injuries, but nothing that describes the accident.
The 1988 Allstate adjustor estimated required repairs at $3,974, and therefore declared it a total loss.
Here's a summary of the main parts listed in the estimate:
front bumper (and all associated parts like spoiler, lights, supports, etc.)
Front hood
L/& R fenders: repaired/aligned.
Car condition on the 1988 insurance appraisal listed as "good". Letter from Dieter's Porsche in San Diego stating that the car was regularly serviced there and in above average condition at the time of the accident. Receipts support this.
The original owners of the car bought it back from the insurance company.
As far as I can tell from the mountain of paperwork, the owner then stored the car until 1997, when the engine was pulled, sent to Mark Stephens High Performance of Tehachapi, CA. completely torn down, and rebuilt. New clutch at that time too.
There are receipts for work totalling $4,655.12, dated 12/9/1997, which correspond to the work that was needed per the 1988 insurance estimate. Very odd. All work was done by European Auto Body, a Porsche body repair specialist.
Car #2: - 1975 1.8, Silver:
The car's price is fantastic, and it seems to be in excellent condition. I'm trying to figure out why so cheap:
.
Last edited by Cuda911; 06-10-2014 at 03:11 AM.
06-10-2014, 11:09 AM
#85
Rennlist Member
If car #1 is still available I would continue to try to negotiate a price with that seller that you can both live with. Next would be the silver one with the salvage title. Unless you are restoring a car to original factory standards to show it, so long as you have the paperwork re the reason for the salvage, I would not hesitate.
One of the 914's I had about 30 years ago was stolen while it was parked at a movie theatre in Hayward. The crook(s) stole the radio and blew up the engine somehow that night and left it parked on the side of the road. Cops found it about a week later. No other damage at all. Insurance totaled the car. I retained it and rebuilt it but it had a salvaged title thereafter. When I sold it I explained it all to the buyer and showed him the pictures and receipts and he as not bothered in the least.
One of the 914's I had about 30 years ago was stolen while it was parked at a movie theatre in Hayward. The crook(s) stole the radio and blew up the engine somehow that night and left it parked on the side of the road. Cops found it about a week later. No other damage at all. Insurance totaled the car. I retained it and rebuilt it but it had a salvaged title thereafter. When I sold it I explained it all to the buyer and showed him the pictures and receipts and he as not bothered in the least.
06-10-2014, 12:23 PM
#86
Race Director
Thread Starter
OK, I've been pondering the silver car all night... I think it worked its way through some bizarre dreams (probably thanks to the Ambien).
As you guys know, I consider a "colorful" car a "must have". Since the collector value of the silver one was killed in 1987 due to the accident, I now feel free to do with it and bastardize it however I want. So, a One Day Paint N Body paint job, and it is the color I want. Next time it needs a rebuild, I swap in a 2.0.
I called my insurance company.... dirt cheap to insure the car... $200/year or less if I give it a stated value of 10K.
I spent a few hours researching regs and issues pertaining to Salvage Title. It varies greatly from state to state. In some states, as Java mentioned, salvage can be a HUGE PITA to register. Some states won't even allow a salvage car to ever operate again, it can only be sold to licensed dismantlers. Clearly, one needs to research the salvage title laws of their state before buying any salvage title car. Some states, a stolen car that is recovered is given salvage status, even if the car is fine. The general consensus is that a salvage title car should be discounted at least 30% to 50% from a similar nonsalvage car. Assuming you want to deal with the salvage issue at all.
I'm going to inspect the silver car in more detail... I had to cut short my inspection yesterday due to actually having to work and earn some $$ smile.gif.
After reading through the massive documentation, I know the history of the silver car extremely well. So, if seller will give me a good price, I think I will buy it. He's asking too much right now.
It has the original fuel injection system, the sucky L-Jet. I say "sucky" only because that's what I keep reading... no personal experience with it. The wheels on it are definitely sucky. Hey, what will some Mahle's run? I looked on Ebay.... there's a guy selling Mahle knock-offs for $500 a set!
Ohhh.... I could have some fun with this car!!! Remember, I said I wanted a 914 as a toy. This car, I could play with, and never feel guilty about what I did to it!!
I've gotta do some serious driving today for work, so I won't be able to follow up until later this evening.
Here's the silver one (I only have one pic at the moment):
.
As you guys know, I consider a "colorful" car a "must have". Since the collector value of the silver one was killed in 1987 due to the accident, I now feel free to do with it and bastardize it however I want. So, a One Day Paint N Body paint job, and it is the color I want. Next time it needs a rebuild, I swap in a 2.0.
I called my insurance company.... dirt cheap to insure the car... $200/year or less if I give it a stated value of 10K.
I spent a few hours researching regs and issues pertaining to Salvage Title. It varies greatly from state to state. In some states, as Java mentioned, salvage can be a HUGE PITA to register. Some states won't even allow a salvage car to ever operate again, it can only be sold to licensed dismantlers. Clearly, one needs to research the salvage title laws of their state before buying any salvage title car. Some states, a stolen car that is recovered is given salvage status, even if the car is fine. The general consensus is that a salvage title car should be discounted at least 30% to 50% from a similar nonsalvage car. Assuming you want to deal with the salvage issue at all.
I'm going to inspect the silver car in more detail... I had to cut short my inspection yesterday due to actually having to work and earn some $$ smile.gif.
After reading through the massive documentation, I know the history of the silver car extremely well. So, if seller will give me a good price, I think I will buy it. He's asking too much right now.
It has the original fuel injection system, the sucky L-Jet. I say "sucky" only because that's what I keep reading... no personal experience with it. The wheels on it are definitely sucky. Hey, what will some Mahle's run? I looked on Ebay.... there's a guy selling Mahle knock-offs for $500 a set!
Ohhh.... I could have some fun with this car!!! Remember, I said I wanted a 914 as a toy. This car, I could play with, and never feel guilty about what I did to it!!
I've gotta do some serious driving today for work, so I won't be able to follow up until later this evening.
Here's the silver one (I only have one pic at the moment):
.
06-10-2014, 03:46 PM
#87
Official Wednesday AM Red Bull F1 test driver
Rennlist Member
Rennlist Member
Recognize those wheels... styled steelies!!
Eventually I'll be selling the matching Fuchs (5) that came with my '73 as I went to 5 bolt. All straight but should be refinished...
Lots of options on wheels for the 914.
Eventually I'll be selling the matching Fuchs (5) that came with my '73 as I went to 5 bolt. All straight but should be refinished...
Lots of options on wheels for the 914.
06-10-2014, 04:51 PM
#88
Banned
Join Date: Sep 2013
Location: Diamond Bar,Ca.
Posts: 228
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
How soon will you be selling the wheels ? and how much you want for the fuchs ?
06-10-2014, 09:01 PM
#89
Race Director
Thread Starter
Hey Niche,
Thanks for all your help in my 914 hunt!!!!
I have an offer in on the silver 1974 1.8. I met with the seller's wife again today. The husband is at work. I'm going back this evening at 7:15 pm with an envelope of cash.
So, I may be joining the 914 Owner's Club (is there any such thing) tonight!
The only rust I could find on the car is inside the rear trunk. The seller says it had no rust when they bought it a couple years ago, and it does look superficial. Now, I need to learn what to do to stop it in its tracks. Assuming the car is mine, I will start a new thread. I will have a million questions for you guys.
Those "steelie" wheels... are they considered sucky wheels? I'm not a "wheel guy", so I never know what people think of various wheels. There is some minor rust on the steel bands around the perimeters, it will clean up easy.
A few pix:
.
.
Thanks for all your help in my 914 hunt!!!!
I have an offer in on the silver 1974 1.8. I met with the seller's wife again today. The husband is at work. I'm going back this evening at 7:15 pm with an envelope of cash.
So, I may be joining the 914 Owner's Club (is there any such thing) tonight!
The only rust I could find on the car is inside the rear trunk. The seller says it had no rust when they bought it a couple years ago, and it does look superficial. Now, I need to learn what to do to stop it in its tracks. Assuming the car is mine, I will start a new thread. I will have a million questions for you guys.
Those "steelie" wheels... are they considered sucky wheels? I'm not a "wheel guy", so I never know what people think of various wheels. There is some minor rust on the steel bands around the perimeters, it will clean up easy.
A few pix:
.
.