Bargain or not?

superfueler · July 17, 2019, 01:11:17 PM

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 · July 18, 2019, 10:16:34 AM

fresh import, where has it come from?

80 Vert · July 18, 2019, 11:12:47 AM

Japan, over 20 y old so can be complied.

superfueler · July 19, 2019, 12:00:53 PM

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

80 Vert · July 19, 2019, 01:18:05 PM

Does that make a difference on such an old car?

superfueler · July 19, 2019, 02:24:24 PM

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 · July 20, 2019, 07:35:19 AM

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 · July 21, 2019, 03:12:46 PM

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.