Advice on this T350c

[Zippee]

Already posted a topic slightly related in the T350 forum but after a wider opinion.
I'm looking to buy a T350c and came upon this one in the classifieds;
http://pistonheads.com/sales/711833.htm
Whilst my budget is up to 22k and so will get me a low mileage 2004 model I'm not adverse to a bargain. BUT I'm a little concerned on this one.
I've spoken with the dealer (Not a TVR one) who has given me the following;
Full history, up to 18k in 2006 by TVR Barnet (£2700 last bill)
Next one at Tabs (I think - no receipt only a service stamp) of Milton Keynes tel:[phone]
Last one 600 mile ago by a company called STS in Swindon (01793 433366) again no receipt just a stamp and the last 2 I've never heard of (any ideas?)

No documents relating to a rebuild, which given the 03 engine and mileage kind of scares me. Though if I can get it for a decent price/discount to reflect this fact it'd be OK - was thinking 16k - anyone think this is maybe a tad optimistic? Or too high?
It'd come with a very basic 3mth warranty.

Chassis stated as good as is bodywork.
Small tear on drivers seat back bolster, caused by seat belt - common?

He's had it in stock since last week - 2 owners from new, air con etc.

Any thoughts on it would be much appreciated.

Edited by Zippee on Friday 3rd October 16:58

[c1sps]

Have a look at the one James Agger has for sale on PH - its almost within your budget, is a Targa, and will have full history and is very low mileage - and hes a good guy (and well respected within the TVR community)
What looks a bargain now might turn out to be a very expensive mistake in the very near future........

[Zippee]

Yeah - seen James one, trouble is I don't want the targa. I far prefer the cleaner line of the coupe.
I was just wandering if the red one I mentioned above could have potential and what people would say is the right price bearing in mind what I've mentioned. If I could price in the fact it's got more mileage/is older but also a potential rebuild then it may be worth it. Trouble is at the price stated I feel it's too expensive with the risks involved.

[S6 ROR]

Hi Tony, If you can negotiate the cost of a rebuild into the purchase price, I think it would stack up. I had a 53 plate T350C and the engine sounded so much better than my previous 02 plate Tamora which the engine let go shortly after i sold it. They say that from 03 onwards you should be OK, but caution is the key. Have you spoken to the two previous owners? Although they say buy as latter car as possible, I rekon a 53 plate for the right price and a bit of digging should be a safe bet. With the credit crunch and the mileage, should put you in a strong negotiaiting position.

Edited by S6 ROR on Saturday 4th October 01:02

[tobeee]

Hi Tony, glad to see your hunt is gathering momentum! If you're concerned about the year, one thing to bear in mind is that an 03 car might be a late 02 build. That aside, I'd recommend pushing for a private purchase, as you'll get more for your money. Mine was from PHer so I was able to read through his forum history, and once I decided I wanted the car (as soon as I saw the photos as it goes!) I then enlisted a professional to check it over for me. He gave it 99%, but said the clutch was dragging and would almost certainly give up after another year. He was spot on, and I got that changed before it let me down proper. I'll forward his details in case you're interested! If you fancy a closer poke around a T350 (mine's 54 reg) let me know, though I should imagine you've already looked at a few!

[timmybob]

Hi Tony,

Glad you've sold yours and have decided to stick with TVR (no comments please about my current transport!).
If I was getting another, I'd prefer to see a list of receipts detailing work done, not just a service book stamp. And I'd make sure that the services were carried out by somebody who knows what he's doing (as we have both have had issues from this in the past). There's quite a few around in your price range (I personally like the look of the black 04 plate in Fife), even if you do want to give up on the wind in the hair motoring and stick with a coupe.
Although James Agger doesn't have a coupe in at the moment, it still might be worth having a word as he can let you know if he's getting one.
Say 'Hi' to Bev and I'll give you a shout next time I'm back in the UK for more than a week...

Simon

[Zippee]

Hi Simon,
I almost cried when mine drove off - loved that car!!! Got a very good price though and the new owner has gotten a damned good car.
I agree with all your points and I'm not rushing into anything but I NEED another TVR. I'll certainly only be buying a good one though and am being very choosy - the red one above just looks like it could potentially be a bargain at the right price (poss also a duffer) hence the post. The black one I've received a few comments about so will likely leave it where it is.
Will be good to see you when you're back though may need a pax seat