Surprisingly, this 1981 Mercedes station wagon available here on craigslist is neither a diesel nor an automatic model. Instead, it sports a gasoline engine and a 4-speed manual transmission, a striking departure from the oil burning slushbox models we’re accustomed to seeing. Plus, it’s only $2,900 and doesn’t seem to have many issues beyond cosmetic faults. The seller says you’ll need new carpets and tires, two fairly basic/easy improvements for even the only-slightly handy owner. This car is crying out for some European glass headlights and H&R suspension, two modifications you can justify thanks to the low cost of entry and wise investment that is the W123-series Mercedes.
Archives for November 2015
1993 Pontiac Sunbird: First Car Material
Nov 17, 2015 8 Comments
When I was in high school, one of my best friends owned a Pontiac Sunbird Turbo. It was such a cool car, especially to a high-schooler who didn’t know what a boost gauge was. This Sunbird SE V6 (naturally aspirated) found here on craigslist in Arizona has only 39,000 original miles and brings back lots of fond memories. With the automatic transmission and leisurely acceleration (not to mention dirt-cheap parts), a Sunbird might make an excellent candidate for a high school student’s first car if they don’t have a long commute (V6s are thirsty!). It’s just old enough that it’s funky but not so far gone that it becomes a nightmare to keep on the road. For $4,350, though, that is top-of-the-market pricing. Thanks to Credit Card Classics reader Rohns for the find.
1983 Honda Civic Wagon: Giant Killer
Nov 10, 2015 2 Comments
If you buy this car, the seller makes a bold claim: the guy in the Porsche will have no chance with the ladies. Is that possible with a 1983 Honda Civic wagon, listed here on Maine’s craigslist for $3,700? There’s only one way to find out, I suppose. While the seller hypes the car’s effect on the fairer sex, I’m more intrigued by the 4-speed manual transmission and surprisingly clean body for a car with northern roots. The seller says it is rust-free but aside from re-painting the wheels, doesn’t talk much about any sort of maintenance work he has completed. Now, I know that it’s a Honda and they don’t need much, but we’d all feel better knowing a brake job or coolant flush has been performed. Still, this is a great buy for a starter classic.