You almost DID have a limb torn off, Bud. GST voucher not the most important factor as any private sale won't have GST added on. Dealers do try to sell their cars for a premium, but these cars usually have a good history. Not worth the $5-$10,000 markup in my opinion though. Only get 90 day warranty anyway. A thorough PPI at a dealer should put your mind at ease and only costs $200-$300, a lot less than their markup plus GST. When I got mine ALL comparable cars at MCL and Weissach were at least $10,000 more after GST figured in. I recommend you do pay the $20 to get ICBC claims history on a potential vehicle as seller may not disclose everything. The accident paperwork on my car was conveniently missing, yet every oil change is accounted for!

P-Car
 

Yes that is so true Derek.

Here is the replacement 86 Carrera Coupe that I am looking at and would really love to take for a drive. It very well could be the "ONE" as it is the right color and has all of the features that I am looking for, problem is it is so far away. The price is reasonable but once you tack on all of the damn Canadian taxes, Levy's shipping to get it here etc ... it would be about 31K CAD which is just out of my reach.

Man I am so bummed ...

So sorry Pointman,

Having been on the receiving end myself I know the heartbreak you're feeling and your well warranted concerns for how your insurance Co. will treat you. That would make for an interesting follow-up post. Perhaps one of those more capable wrenches out there can take the car and do something with it.
The good news is that one of your "upgrades" wasn't fiberglass bumpers!!
Best to you in your time of strife...

Sorry Pointman. Chin up, though. I just bought an '86 sunroof coupe with 121k miles on eBay for US$10,000. All it needs is paint, an A/C update and some love.

Keep looking, you'll get there...

H