Topic: Opinion request: Lemons candidates
Thinking of starting the process. I have several Lemons candidates, and I'm inviting opinions on viability. I know, on the internet....I know! I'll pick one in the next month or so.
96Accord coupe, 97Volvo 850NA, 01Maxima, 03Mazda6, 91CapriceClassic
The Accord has the 4cyl, manual, but I got it with what looks like modifications. I haven't run it on the road, but it does run, accelerates easily in the parking lot, and started easily after sitting for 6 months. Surprisingly quick for a 4cyl. It actually looks like it was originally the auto it was advertised to be. The clutch shifter stalk is massively thick, much thicker than my 98Civic stick, and has an unexpected bend in it - but not from damage as far as I can tell. It has a valve cover with VTEC on it, an aftermarket air intake, and a blue aluminum billet oil cap which I don't think is stock. It came with an aftermarket [Cervinis(R)] hood with scoops, an aluminum grill, halo headlight modifications, and aftermarket pedals which are ugly and look like crap. Come to think of it, they might be a basis for a theme.... The interior was spray painted same as the hood, and I like the color, but the rest of the car doesn't match it. After I finished the deal, I started it the first time [I know, I know. I could have run him down on foot if necessary, but I don't begrudge a hungry man a large hoagie - or 3], and before I got the hood open, one guy nearby who heard it run told me, "Do some research, that might be a lot more valuable than you think it is. Do some research." He seemed kind of miffed he didn't get the deal instead of me. I originally bought it for a replacement tranny for another Accord, as I believed the internet listing "Auto", but, it isn't, so, it's extra 'inventory', or another daily driver project I don't need.
The 97 Volvo is an auto, I've had it for 3 years, a daily driver in the past, and will be again state inspected as soon as I can replace lower control arm bushings next week. It has the sport setting for the tranny. I also will replace valve stem seals to cut down on oil use. It already passed emissions.
The 01 Maxima is one of the manual models, and the source might have an extra stock engine for dirt cheap.
The Mazda is the Mazda6 [edit: V-6] That might speak for itself - dunno.
The 91 CapriceClassic, 5.0l, a daily driver, would need springs and tighter shocks - right now it's basic springs and basic shocks. On the other hand, I can probably float smoothly over any speed bumps I come across. Stock alloy 15" wheels. Early, so has the flat bottom rear wheel openings, making quick tire/brake changes annoying. A 1-inch dent in LF fender from some guy who didn't see me in the next lane, and because of its age, insurance was going to total it. I took $400 less than offered to keep it a clean title. Body is actually in great shape other than the dent. A body guy told me to not sell it for less than $2k, but those customers are few and far between. Seems slower than the Accord, which is ... unexpected. But 24 mpg on the highway last month, so I can't complain.
Legitimate, documented low cost acquisition and repairs, and most have a couple hundred available room for parts.
Any opinions, guesses, or suggestions you would care to share? On the cars, just the cars.....