Rough 328 values

Assuming a fine running, high mileage 328 (over 75K miles). Pre-ABS model. One that's rough cosmetically (some interior bits missing), and possibly resprayed a different color.

I'd classify a car like this as a driver, but rough...what would a car like that be worth?

 

I'd call this below average. Definitely a driver car.

I am absolutely handy enough to work the rough pieces short of the major cosmetics. I could do belts too if needed, but mechanically the car is sound. Drives straight and handles fantastic. New tires and upholstery.

Big rust spot at the A-pillar - covered by the removable top, but it's there. Some orange peel on the paint (again, it was painted in a different color than original).

Interior knobs all messed up, but there.

If I offered $25K, would that be too much?

 

I am thinking of doing it, as I've checked out some rough 308s for $25K. I figure I can drive the heck out of this one and enjoy it, but don't want to get ripped either.

I've been hot on a 3x8 for a looooooooooooong time. I can afford to be patient, but I am now 41 and feel like the time to do it is now. This car is rough, but nothing grossly out of line. New tires and upholstery are big plusses, but the respray concerns me.

I had someone check out the car - it was definitely a different color. I guess that shouldn't matter, and at $25K (assuming the person takes the offer), I could live with some stories.

Here is the interior and the rust spot:
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I've always thought about whether it's the right one, which is why after an almost 20 year search, I own an E-Type and not a Ferrari.

Given the FUD and the scams, I have always had cold feet when it comes to these cars. More comfortable now with F-Chat being informative and letting me know I can actually work on these cars.

I've seen many cars in similar condition for more money. This is as close to the right one as I'll get, but again, I'll always question if it's really "right"...hence my questions.

Rob - car shifted like a champ and ran fantastic. Allegedly (no receipts) had an engine out in 2004, FWIW

 

Drive train was in great shape. Car idles well, pulls hard. Shifts perfect, no issues there.

 

Great advice guys, I appreciate it.

Of the cars I would consider, it would be a carb'd 308, 308QV or 328. I considered 328's to be out of my range, so I've looked at a ton of 308's over the past few years.

I've not found one for $25K that was in better shape that this car. Certainly, similar, but none better for $25K. Many of the 308's I've looked at were more than $30K and arguably better.

I posted the worst pictures to give an idea of roughness - the car for the most part is better than what you see. Mind you, it's not great - it's been used and it's been driven. Has over 75K miles, the owner drives it a lot - I look at that as a good thing.

Just trying to get a feel for values. If it's rough, I understand that and can do much of the needed work on my own. I am less concerned with cosmetics, I'd be more worried about the drivetrain, which appears to be in very good shape.

 

One other thing - I didn't mention...this guy has owned the car for over 20 years. He's the second owner, and he's done what needs to be done to keep the car running.

 

If someone can find me another car for $25K, I'd go for it. I definitely think you may be on to something about the rain...wondering if he left the top off and it got rained on / water damage, as the seats are new.

 

I am probably going to take a pass, but I don't necessarily agree with this. My Jag was in far worse shape and didn't need much to get her going. I do most work myself, and I am confident I could do same on this car.

Cosmetics - yes, I think it needs some TLC, but I wouldn't bother with that. The engine was strong and has been maintained, so I don't see $10K worth of work in the short term (although a given over time).