Question of value added
 

I am considering putting my '91 C2 up for sale and would like an opinion. It has approximately 180K miles on it (odometer stopped at 159K); the driver's seat is well worn and the tail lights/reflector look very tired. My question is, if I spend the $2300 or so to recover the seats and replace the lights/reflector, would I get more out than I put in for the cost of repair? I am addressing a few mechanical issues but not sure if the repair of the seats/lights is worth the effort. Curious what you may think. Thanks.

mate - selling cars is like dating women - first appearance is everything.

I would just let it be part of the bargaining in the sale of the car.

I don't think there would be much value added over the cost of those repairs and depending on the market, you may not even realize those costs. There's also the time you spend getting dealing with the shops, etc. When I've sold cars, I've always attempted to make sure the critical systems work (Or inform the buyer if they don't), but appearance issues are just part of the bargaining process. You didn't ask, but if it were my car, I'd detail it out as nicely as possible and put it out there. Let the next guy decide whether or not he can live with worn seats.

Bigger issue is "unknown mileage". I would not put more than a detail in the car. Either yourself or have it done. Detailing the car (even over worn seats) is money you will recover. Refinishing like you describe is not, especially on a high mileage driver.

G

Thanks for the advice. I am inclined to think the same way, detail the car and not worry too much about the seats, etc. Mechanically it is a sound driver. Again, thanks!

^This. I would've had the odometer fixed right away instead of building up more mileage. But that ship has sailed, so I wouldn't put anything else into the car and price it appropriately.