Can someone point me to a 3rd gen buyers guide please, or tell me some of the stuff to look for specifically. It's a 91 RS 305 in question.

thanks guys,
-brent

 

pop the car up in the air and check for any frame damage or repair, these cars take alot of abuse by less than perfect drivers.

Also, check the floorpan, the rear of the fenders under the GFX, and under the spare tire for rust. Investigate any rust that appears to be surface rust on the body panels. Might be much worse than it appears because more often than not the panels rot from the inside out.

As always, listen carefully for piston slap, rod knock, or any other noise that sounds out of place. Run the trans thru all the gears and GET ON IT. Pay attention for any wierd burning smells or slippage.

have a buddy follow behind you and watch for any smoke out the pipes, or flying parts

If the seller won't let you take it for a test drive or check out what you need to see, walk away instantly without even thanking him for his time. He's trying to hide something from you.

Check out the tire condition. If only two are stripped to the belts, chances are that it was beat pretty good. Ask him about it.

Find as much wrong with the car as you possibly can, and if you still want it, use that info to lowball him.

Good luck, and let us know how it turns out

 

Thanks for the replies so far guys.

The kid wants 1600 for a 91 rs with 155k miles, so i thought the price was pretty fair to begin with. I drove it earlier today. I didn't go crawling around underneath at all since there was snow on the ground where it was parked. I was just treating this as the preliminary check out, i'd definitly check in out in more detail before buying it, as in getting under it and checking for leaks.

Car was repainted a couple years ago and though not perfect, I was actually surprised how good it was.

I was also impressed that it started right up after sitting for weeks with no stalling and no smoking. The valvetrain and motor itself was surprisingly quiet when I popped the hood. Motor was clean, not like he steam cleaned it for me, just not a mess, the car is bone stock too.

I didn't wind it out since i know those things don't like to spin anyways, but did go WOT at lower and mid rpms. I wasn't expecting to be blown away by the 305 performance, and thats not why i'd buy this car so that wasn't a major concern of mine.

Some interior rattles, but i expected that. Tires are good. The drivers side door does take a good slam to shut fully, so i need to check around there for rust i guess. Tell me more about door problems, I'll try some searches on that too.

I think i could pick it up for 1400. the other thing i have to decide is if I really need another fbody, or if i should get something more practical.

thanks,
-brent

 

You could probably get it for $1000 if you play your cards right..