Bargain or not?

[superfueler]

I am looking for a nice mk3 GTI and came across this one. What do the mk3 boffins recon, is this a good price?

https://www.trademe.co.nz/motors/used-cars/volkswagen/auction-2055244613.htm

[the phantom]

fresh import, where has it come from?

[80 Vert]

Japan, over 20 y old so can be complied.

[superfueler]

Unfortunately no service history otherwise i would have scooped it up. 

[80 Vert]

Does that make a difference on such an old car?

[superfueler]

A well documented history is where a lot of the value lies in a car, old or new. I have burned myself far too many times buying euro cars without good maintenance histories. Its a pity that most import cars loose their wallet at the arrival docs, i was lucky to get my R32's wallet and service history with the car.

This GTI might very well be in good mechanical condition but i cannot take that verbal "promise" from the dealer to heart. The missus will kill me! 

[Trofeo]

I disagree. A thrashed car with full service history is likely to be in worse condition than a cared for car that's only been serviced sporadically. It's not hard to inspect for yourself, or get a third party inspection that will give you the state of the car now.  Crash damage is my main consideration when buying. No amount of servicing will fix that up!

[superfueler]

A very valid reply you have there. I guess one will never be 100% certain if you are buying a lemon or a gold bar when going second hand.

Still, the only time i will buy a car with no documented history is if i personally know the previous owner(s). Comes down to individual choice i guess.