Hi guys, I no next to nothing about this model, however I've been enquiring about a 1978 512bb, 52000 km, unrestored. The seller though told me it hasn't been used since 1990, that was when the last major was done. I havent' seen this car yet as I'm in asia at the moment. Is this kind of normal for a car like this ? what kind of money would I need to put it back on the road ? the price is around 95k USD. Thanks in advance.
Sitting for 20+ years? A lot depends on how it was stored, but I would guess it will need a lot of work to become a reliable driver.
Good day Barabba, If the belts have not been done for that long I would imagine that the car has not been started, driven, much if any... and so at a minimum I can see timing belts (bearings, etc), hoses, fuel system (filters, tank cleaning, carb rebuilding), brake system, tires, etc... This list will add up quickly. Rather than idle speculation, I would suggest you have the car transported to a reputable shop for a PPI and a cost assessment on what the car needs to be drivable. This will remove all doubt and will give you a perspective if this is the car for you as well as its final price (purchase price + deferred maintenance cost). Cheers, Sam
It's not "normal" but it's not unheard of either. Could be $20K (if it ran like a top when they put it in the box), or maybe $60K to $80K, (if it rolled over and burned, before they put it in the box.) See the variables??? How does it LOOK!!??? Put an picture up of the VIN plate and these guys can tell you the last time it was waxed, they are THAT good!!! Put a deposit down first, maybe.
thanks for your answers. Yes I would definitely consider a PPI! I will post some pics later today. The car doesn't look too bad on pics. Thanks again and have a good day.
I looked at a number of carbed BBs in Italy, Canada and the U.S. before I bought my '78 at the end of 2011. I paid for a number of PPIs on cars I passed over and wonder if you are looking at the one that I am thinking of. PM me if you want. FWIW my car ran well and had complete records (including a current belt service) from the dealer, but I still spent $30k on some preventative items, cad plating, hoses, bushings, Konis, tires, etc. Seems a lot, but I tend to err on the side of doing the work if in doubt. If, after a PPI you assume that you need to spend a similar number and add it to the purchase price it still may not be a bad deal. I would go for one with a minimum amount of federalization modifications.
A BB that has sat that long, I would take all hoses out, do a major, expect the leather to have dried out possibly unsalvageable, bushes needing replacing, shocks likely need replacing, tyres requiring replacing. Very likely the exterior paint is no longer good. I would be very surprised if it would take less than $50k to get this car running well. Just my experience. I bought a freshly restored BB and it cost me $40k to get it running right. I only found out after a couple of thousand miles that it really needed an engine rebuild. Boxers are worth the money but please know what you are getting into. Please make sure you replace ALL fuel lines BEFORE you drive it! BB's are petrol bombs if not regularly used!!! Onno
PPI If you want to purchase the BB make sure you have a PPI from someone who really understands the BB series of cars. In addition once the car is correct, you will really enjoy driving without regret. From experience expect the unexpected. 40K 60k can happen. But who cares, you only live once.!!!
