Looking to buy a speedster

Good morning everyone,greetings from Sacramento,Ca.

I have very recently joined this forum and I have been pouring through as much information as possible,as it is a very informative site.

Here is my question.There is a gentleman selling a 1957 widebody replica on the Sacramento Craigslist for $21.000.I spoke with him,and the only information he has regarding the car is that a mechanic built it with his brother.No idea if the car is an Irs vs. swingaxle,drum brakes,etc.He's also not sure what kind of kit it is.The car has been for sale for at least 2 to 3 months,as far as I can tell.

Now,a little bit about myself.I have been in love with the Porsche 356 for a long time,but of course,never been able to afford one.I would love to have a nice replica,just want to make sure I do not get into something over my head.I did have a 1956 bug when I was around 20 years old,so tinkering is not a problem,just want to make sure that I get something nice.

Now,here is the other question.I have a nice 1970 Toyota Landcruiser that I would like to trade for the kit car,not sure how good of a trade this is,as the Landcruiser,as it sits,is worth somewhere in the 20 to 25K.

What do you guys think?Thank you in advance for your time.

3/21/1911:09 AM

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Theron Site Administrator

Speedsters are not created equal. You need to know the make and quality of build. Pictures of the exterior, interior and engine will help us to identify. You could have an old poorly made body with serious frame problems that's worth 10k. It may take thousands of dollars and hours to get it up to par. Or you could have a nicely built body, frame and engine that's worth 30k. Hard to know just by the description of "wide body speedster".

If it's the white widebody with poor photos that's been on and off craigslist, I passed on it months ago based on what I saw. I would risk 12k to get it, knowing I could get my money back, but that was my upper limit.

-=theron

3/21/1911:32 AM

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Troy Sloan Supporting Member

I agree with Theron I looked at the ad and would pass on it too.

3/21/1911:57 AM

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Robert Moldovan

Thank you for the quick reply,gentlemen.It is the white wide body with poor photos,and unfortunately,he does not know much,if anything about it.The pics are still up on Craigslist,for what that's worth.I have not been able to go and see the car,not that it would help much,not knowing anything about the Porsche replicas.

3/21/1912:35 PM

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356GS (Greg) Supporting Member

Robert, you should sell your Toyota out right, and talk to Troy Sloan above about the black wide body he's selling. It looks like a sweet car and Troy wouldn't steer you wrong.

3/21/198:43 PM

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MusbJim'14 VS SoCal Supporting Member

@Robert Moldovan

Robert, I agree with @356GS (Greg) about selling your Cruzer outright. You may already be aware of https://expeditionportal.com and should consider it as a place to list your Cruzer. Check out their Landcruiser forum. You would get a better price for that classic ride, especially in your area (off road trails).

There are other SOCers on here that refurbish replica Speedsters and turn them over. @Alan Merklin @Troy Sloan and @Theron they may be able to provide a lead on a car that suits your endeavor.

Best of Luck! thumb

3/22/1911:10 AM

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MusbJim'14 VS SoCal Supporting Member

@Robert Moldovan

P.S. - I miss my old beast '75 'Cruzer and regret having sold it. It would be sweet if it were possible to keep yours, plus swing the purchase of a Speedster. Either way, I think you would enjoy hanging with the down-to-earth folks of the SOC group. thumb