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Need advice regarding potential purchase. 700

Greetings, fellow Bricksters: I've been nesting for awhile in the 200 section, since my present ride is a 1987 240, daily driver, 190K and still going strong. Unfortunately, it's being attacked by the dreaded Cleveland Tin Worm, and the cost of body work to fix, might not be justified for the car...I haven't decided yet. Nonetheless, I visited one of the local higher end lots the other day, and what to my wond'ring eyes should appear, but the following:
1989 240 Wagon, 135K, beautiful shape, $2995
1989 740 Wagon, 125K, very nice shape, $3995
1991 760 Turbo/Intercooled Wagon, 91K,very decent shape, $2500
All appear to be rust free, interiors clean, tires good, body straight examples of the breed. I have not driven any of them yet, due to time constraints, but that could be a Monday or Tuesday project. I'm torn between sticking with what I know, and either keeping my car or picking up the 240, or moving a little upscale to the 700 series. I know that there's a bias in this forum, but helpful answers nonetheless. My questions are as follows:
1. Since there's a certain appeal to the Turbo/IC, what do I need to look out for in this particular engine? Is it durable, or problematic? Does the turbo make it even more delicate and is the turbo itself prone to problems? What am I looking for at 90K?
2. In general, what types of misfortune are the 700 series hit with? I know about the cheesy headliner and leaking sunroofs, but what about the suspension, drivetrain, electrics and paint?
3. Are the interiors durable? Does stuff tend to fall off or tear? Nothing bugs me more than ripped seats. Are these going to be a problem?
4. Are the cars, in general, durable or prissy? I'm not in the market for a vehicle that's going to spend a boatload of time on the lift or at the end of a tow hook.
5. What parts of the body, floors, rockers,wheel wells are prone to rust and how badly? Does a trip to the local Ziebart help any?
6. Which of the bunch, all things being equal and all running well (given their age) would you recommend?
I know that this is a tall order, and will generate a lively discussion, but I'm really looking for a no-BS analysis from those who know about the cars. This is why I'm going straight to the source...the 700 forum. Thanks in advance, as always.

Brad
'87 240 190K daily driver.
'63 122S 46K (honest!) project....but that's a whole other story!






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New Need advice regarding potential purchase. [700]
posted by  Bradley  on Sat Dec 7 17:51 CST 2002 >


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