Whats most important???

[wigs25]

I am beginning my search for a 914. I'm looking for something in the $4,000 range. My question is this. With this price range should I be more concerned with rust issues or mechanical issues. I'm aware I'll be throwing money at this project but I'm at a loss of where to start. Looked at a 74 2.0 today runs strong but driver seat not mounted to the floor because the bolt pad is rusted through. Where did y'all start your purchase process?? what was the price you paid and what was the condition you purchased?

Thanks for your help

[Dave at Pelican Parts]

I bought my 914 long enough ago that the price I paid is irrelevant to today's market.

The top three things you have to be concerned with are:
1- Rust
2- Rust
3- RUST.

Mechanical condition is generally secondary to the structural integrity of the chassis. Unless you really like welding and fabrication, in which case a project like that could be interesting to do.

Location plays a large role in how much rot you expect the car to have. In areas where they salt the roads, the tinworm attacks very aggressively. If you're in the rust belt, it may make sense to look remotely at cars in the southwest or west coast.

--DD

[SirAndy]

Originally Posted by wigs25

Whats most important???

Rust. The be precise, the lack of rust is hands down the most important factor.

[PCA7GGR]

While rust is indeed the most import factor, a good running drivetrain is a close second. Engine and tranny work can easily exceed the initial purchase price.

[Tobra]

I got a strong running, rust free '74 2.0 for $1500 about 8 years ago. Ratty paint and interior, a lot of rotten rubber, but all good steel. I feel like I got an exceptional deal. It is all apart right now to get painted, but I sort of wish I had just kept driving it with the burned up orange paint. I put 4-5 grand into paint, another grand into carpet and upholstery and I will have about a $10,000 car, I figure.

I searched for a '73 or '74 2.0 and got lucky.

[4runnertoy]

Besides the rust, what else should I be focusing on (engine, gauges, etc)?

[Cairo94507]

I would try to find one that is as complete and as original as possible. And if you find one that has been modified, see if they still have all of the stock parts. Also, definitely put it up on a lift to look at the entire chassis and check for cobbled together panels and poor repairs or DIY stuff done haphazardly. Also, check every single switch and light to make sure all of the electrical works. Check all of the locks to see if they function properly and if the key operates all of them.