Faseeh Irfan

Hello everyone,
I am in the market for a Z, and I found a salvage 350z for sale for $2200 CAD. The engine is good, starts fine and runs. I've attached pictures! I am okay at working on cars, (can change brakes, oil, batteries, and basic stuff like that). The owner has given me a list of things that needs to be done to the car, but said that there may be more:

• Rear Traction Arms
• Rear Brake Pads
• Side Skirts
• Windshield
• Fix Exhaust
• Battery
• Bumper needs to be installed

I can change the battery and do the brakes myself, and it should cost me around $300. However, I am not sure how costly the rest of the repairs will be. If someone could have a look at the pictures I've attached and give their opinion on it, I'd appreciate it.
From what I can see, the inner bumper does not have any noticeable damage, so I would think that all that needs to be done is install the bumper?
And I have no idea what rear traction arms are lol....
Thanks!

travlee

iTrader: (8)

sounds like you would be buying someone else's problem

Legacy406

iTrader: (1)

Just because it starts and runs doesn't mean the engine is ok. Also, the fact the owner said "there MAY be more".......stay away. Id personally go with a Foxbody Stang with all you're gonna be dropping into this car but thats just me.

PeterPotatoes

I'd buy it being a mechanic, I've seen people with no electrical experience throw thousands worth of parts at a car for a corroded plug. Best bet is to get something running.

This reminds me of a Malcom in the middle episode where Malcom buys a junker hotrod that constantly breaks down. When his mom is about to step in, Hal stops her "He needs to learn on his own". I did the same thing with a 90 Supra before I knew anything. Spent a whole bunch of money for tiny moments of fun. I ended up parting it out for a huge loss.

Sundown72

+1 on avoiding this. The hood and bumper show it’s been hit in the front, and the headlight doesn’t meet the hood properly, so it may have the front end pushed around a bit. Couple that with the list of problems the owner is telling you are on the back end, when it’s been hit in the front...

I’d also look into what it takes to get a rebuilt title/ownership for something that has been declared salvage. Here in Illinois only licensed rebuilders can apply for rebuilt titles for vehicles that have salvage titles. So unless it’s going full racecar.

This seems like ta classic, “Good, fast, cheap...pick two.” You’re likely to be into the car way more than it will ever be worth. If you love the platform, wait for the right example, to come by and save up where you can to be ready to jump on it when it does.

Legacy406

iTrader: (1)

If only you were looking years back. I sold my Z for like 5k over 10yrs ago. Perfect condition body, just the rings were shot and it needed either a rebuild or new engine. Woulda been perfect for you.