Re: Buying a used GTV

[Alfisto@xxxxxxx]

Greg Morgan alsks about prices of GTVs in the SF Bay Area.
On average $2000 will buy you a tired one with some rust, maybe one which
smokes, has SPICA problems and needs lots of work and restoration - unless you
are just plain lucky. A relatively good, well looked after one ranges from
$3500 to $4500.
A previously restored one in v.g condition all around, may go from $4500 to
$5500. After twenty years use as a daily driver, our 74 GTV is currently being
restored to almost show quality but within a limited budget. It has had all
rust and dents removed (and it had lots of both), received a top quality paint
job, new headliner and seatcovers and also a new (but used) higher performance
motor rebuilt by ex-club president. If I were to even consider selling it when
completed (correction: If MY WIFE were to consider selling her real love!) -it
would probably sell quickly at $6500 as there is a very strong demand for GTVs
in the Bay Area. 

Re-parts: new NOS, (very expensive), new aftermarket (expensive), and used
(inexpensive) parts are all plentiful in SF Bay Area (home to APE the largest
Alfa wrecking yard in the country) . Plenty of competent Alfa repair shops
averaging $70 an hour labor. Also an excellent Alfa Club and newsletter (ARA)
and loads of free advice from club members and gurus. 
74 GTV is generally considered to be best model. It is fuel injected and has
least smog equipment. It also has one more test to go before being smog test
free. (73 is cut-off year in CA)
Problems?. Besides rust around windows - add rust in lower door area and
sills, oil leaks, clapped out motor and/or fuel injection system, bad 2nd and
3rd. synchros. Also more rust in front fenders rear of wheels. And torn seats.
Re-purchasing car - to find a good one will take a lot of searching and going
to Club events and swap meets. Best to get one from an Alfa enthusiast,
preferably a club member who has deep pockets and who has doted on it.
Happy searching
Graham Arlen
74 GTV
61 Giulietta
88 Milano 

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