I think that it can work out well if, (and this is a big IF), you really communicate w/ the seller, both on the phone to hear his/her voice, and through email so that there is a record of what was said. There is nothing wrong with explaining to the seller, (in a nice way of course), the need for the email. I always diplomatically tell them that as long as there are no surprises they have a sale, but if there are surprises they will have no sale and an angry traveller on their lawn.
As for the swap meet idea, it might work, but I would just work the usual web sites, including ebay. I see lots of good 911s on ebay, but of course back to the communication advice. Jack Olsen, a moderator on this BBS, bought a late model Jaguar on ebay last year and had a good experience, but he REALLY covered his ass in writing before he sent any $$ or got on a plane. (Actually I think he had the car mailed to him, if I remember right). There is a good thread somewhere in the dustbin here about it, do a search and you might find it. Good luck!
