Question About a Vehicle Trade

[whitehusky3]

Hello. This is my first time posting here. I don't know much about vehicles (e.g. I don't even know how to change the oil), so that's mainly why I'm asking for information from knowledgeable people.

In trying to sell my '97 Ford Mustang Coupe 2D, someone asked me if I'd be interested in a trade. They have an '86 Firebird with "lots of aftermarket parts." I have no idea what that means.

Anyway, I'm wondering what your thoughts are on this, what questions I should ask him, etc. I'm selling my Mustang because I need the money, but I'm curious about the Firebird, its value, if a trade of this sort would be worth it, and why the guy wants to trade it.

[whitehusky3]

I was able to get a bit more information from him.

He said it runs good, but it needs a new brake line and new muffler. It has a new fuel pump, fuel filter, new clutch, new rebuilt alternator rims (don't know how something rebuilt is considered new, but whatever), Sony Xplode Radio, Pioneer speakers, and American racing rims.

I asked him why he wants to trade it.

Still looking for peoples' thoughts on this kind of a trade. I can't seem to find information online about the value of an '86 Firebird.

[wrightz28]

Nothing in this description makes any of his "aftermarket parts" worthwhile.

After owning 3 third generation f-bodies, and 2 of which being fuel injected, if this 'bird is not carbureted (and original), I would highly suggeest you walk away given your highly limited experience. No offense, but these cars require ALOT of upkeep given their age and not so up to par electronics. You also didn't say if it's a V6 or V8, fuel delivery type, etc. Being it's a manual, I'm willing to bet it's a 2.8V6 and VERY tired being 24 years old.

That's just touching on the mechinical side.....

As for the body, seeing that you're in Wisconsin, there's going to be a good chance of the inherint body rot these cars 82-92 are known for. If you're still considering this car, pay very close attention to the a-pilars (winshield pilars) in the area starting an inch up from the base of the pilar far ANY signs of rust, bubbled paint, unmatched paint, bondo, etc. If any of these conditions are there, forget it. Why? Once a hole develops there, water travels down the inside of the pilar and rots not only it away, but accumulates in the seat supports in the floorboard, so check there as well (near directly center of the doors under the car).

If that checks out, you're almost okay. Look around the top rear corners of the door windows for any stress cracks or, again, signs they've been repaired. Probably with a V6, this won't be much an issue, usually only the 8's tweak the subframe contruction.

Lastly the rear quarter panels. Not only are they prone to rot, AND QUICKLY, if the above referenced cracks are evident, this will further enhance a rot issue.

Overall, if this is to be your daily diriver, ultimately forget it. Again, upkeep, age, and to say anything about handling in the winter months.

[whitehusky3]

Awesome! Thanks for the response! I found out the guy is 17 and the car currently belongs to his mom. Apparently she's giving it to him when he turns 18 and he wants to trade it for a newer vehicle. I think he was put off when I told him that the Mustang needs a new quarter panel and new tires, which together, would run him about $1,000. Having him change his mind is a good thing. It alleviates my problem of trying to decline his offer without hurting his feelings.