Contemplating my first DSM (95 TSI AWD MT)

[Zonnashi]

So my friend talked me into finally settling on the idea of a DSM. I have known if I got one it'd be a Talon (though I could change body parts to convert, this is just easier). First day I go to look for one I see an AWD MT on craigstlist. Wonder if I can get others input on this one before I push the situation further than looking.

It has 150,000k miles on it. It runs and I did get to drive it, kinda (plate issues so didn't go on road). It has a Large 16g, and a front mount. Though it also has a hideous front bumper on it. The FMIC was replaced (smaller than the one before the incident, and sits higher), headlights from a eclipse, and install of this new bumper due to the car rear ending another car.

Other things, the power steering fluid he says keeps running low, he hasn't found the leak but showed me the area he thinks it is. The sun roof leaks. Door handle is acting funny, have to kind of play with it to open car from outside.

Overall he is asking 3k. I think because I'll be replacing that front bumper and the other issues I should push closer to 2.5. Input is appreciated and thank you before hand.

http://i44.tinypic.com/2jd1tc.jpg
http://i39.tinypic.com/v81p54.jpg
http://i43.tinypic.com/11vk194.jpg

( He has another AWD 2ga talon he said he'd throw in for a total of 4k. Doesn't run, but he's just trying to get his money for the new rims he had put on it.)

Update: Thanks to a local forum, I've stumbled upon a different DSM. Nearly stock
(save exhaust and stereo) 97 Talon AWD w/ 140k asking 3,500. I'm inquiring about MT/AT.

 

[Bud92gsx]

There is no way I would pay 3k for that talon...2k maybe..But a parts car is always a good idea...

The power steering leaks, could be simple..The bumper is horrible..Has eclipse wheels on it..

 

[Zonnashi]

There is no way I would pay 3k for that talon...2k maybe..But a parts car is always a good idea...

The power steering leaks, could be simple..The bumper is horrible..Has eclipse wheels on it..

Good to know. And I believe the stereo doesn't work, I don't recall, wasn't my main concern to look at that. This is to be a project car, as I'm sure everyone's DSM is haha.

 

[kccombs]

Bud is right. Unless dsm' are completly rare were you live then 3000 is a little high for just 1 vehicle. I would do 3000 for both pretty easy. But if you anything like me then i would start way low. And try to grt the best deal you can. And cash in hand is ALWAYS king. And also. That front bumper would have to go. Nobody appreciates the good job they the engineers did on the stock look of our dsm's.

 

[icancruz]

I promise you that dsm's are NOT hard to come by in norfolk, VA. That being said, $3k is too much, even for both cars. Show up with $2400 at his place, and take home both cars

 

[kccombs]

I promise you that dsm's are NOT hard to come by in norfolk, VA. That being said, $3k is too much, even for both cars. Show up with $2400 at his place, and take home both cars

Thats what i would do. And no norfolk has tons of dsms. So just show up show him the cash and get ready to roll.

 

[Zonnashi]

Thanks to a local forum, I've stumbled upon a different DSM. Nearly stock
(save exhaust and stereo) 97 Talon AWD w/ 140k asking 3,500. I'm inquiring about MT/AT.

 

[kccombs]

Good deal. Keep us updated.

 

[dsmboost84]

I wouldn't rush into it. Just see how it plays out if you go over there with cash in hand and see what you can do. If it doesn't work out I'm sure you'll find something else and be just as satisfied. Keep us posted!

 

[Zonnashi]

Good input dsmboost84, and I am trying not to, but I know myself all too well. There is a good chance I will rush getting a dsm in some way now that my mind is set on it. =/

 

[jcart953]

I wouldn't rush into it. Just see how it plays out if you go over there with cash in hand and see what you can do. If it doesn't work out I'm sure you'll find something else and be just as satisfied. Keep us posted!

+1

Personally I don't like buying cars over 120k especially if they have a bunch of problems like your already stating because normally there are many more problems which can turn into one expensive project. However, to each there own and good luck with your buy.