> From: MKCASPIAN1@aol.com
>Well, here is our dilemma. We are going to PA to look at a 78 spitfire to
>purchase, but the only time we can get there in the next few months is next
>week..Now, this cas has had an off the frame restoration, complete with
>sandblasting, priming, and new paint. There is no rust. It has been driven
>less than 1000 miles since restoration. However, if it snowy when we get
>there, we probably won't be able to or want to drive around in the snow and
>salt. Therefore, we would have to return in the spring, probably not until
>may, for test driving. By then, of course, it will probably be gone. So -
>should we be buying a car without a complete test drive? I know the complete
>history of this car, and its really a good one, but its 11 hours away for us.
>
>Any thoughts?
One or two. Firstly, you sound as though you know cars. Secondly,
you sound as though you know the full history of this particular beast.
Thirdly, it's a Spitfire, so if there is anything wrong with it, it
won't take a lot of money or effort to fix.
*Obviously* you want to test drive it if you can, but if you can't, just
trust your knowledge and instincts (and a close visual inspection).
You'd have to be damned unlucky to buy it based on extensive history,
listening to it run, examining it minutely, and *still* find that you'd
been sold a pup.
Alternatively, if you don't feel happy about doing this, you could
always insist on a test drive, regardless of the weather. Ask the
seller to bear in mind that this could be your car after a test drive,
not his. If you test drive it, like it, and buy it, get it back under
cover, and get all the salt off it as soon as possible. One exposure
to salted roads isn't going to hurt it, particularly if it is washed
down and thoroughly dried afterwards. If he refuses, you have to ask
yourself why he doesn't want you to drive the car (and why he is selling
it in February, when everyone knows that you get more money for
convertibles in the Summer).
ATB
--
Mike
Michael Hargreave Mawson, author of "Eyewitness in the Crimea"
http://www.greenhillbooks.com/booksheets/eyewitness_in_the_crimea.html
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