Question on this IM for Sale

Ask for the VIN number and call Henry.

Careful of the "registered as a Porsche"

Did you check to see if they still have it in stock? I've been finding Speedster advertisements online at GCC but then check and they are no longer in inventory - right now they have none listed.

Are we sure that's an IM?  Weird AC unit.  Maybe it came without AC and someone wedged one in there.  A bit strange.

Ed,

Before you get too involved in the buying process, you may want to contact the seller and get a copy of the registration, then go to that state's Dept. of Motor Vehicles to determine for yourself how the car is actually titled.  Despite the seller's statement that the car is titled as a genuine Porsche, it may actually be titled as a Porsche replica or some other designation that the state in question uses for replicas, kit cars, tribute cars, etc.

The last thing you need with a car purchase is an extended battle with bureaucracy to get it licensed in your state.  If you have questions, there are lots of guys on this site who can help.  Best of luck and please keep the group informed.  That's how we all learn how it really works.

Looks like it's pan-based, so it is either an old (pre-tube frame) IM or a Fiberfab with the Roadster option.  It looks nice, but not $50k nice.

It appears to be a Roadster D model as it doesn't have a Speedster windscreen, the seats have headrests, and it has roll-up windows. BUT, the tunnel is round on this car and the tunnel on an IM is square and a lot lower than this one.  The foot-well suggests this car is on a shortened VW chassis which IM hasn't done for some time. 

It could quite possibly be a pan-based IM which would mean it was built some time ago but that would mean it should have a lot more miles on it instead of 455.

Probably a restored pan based IM.  Which means its really over 30 years old.  Still looks pretty nice.  

I'd want to see INTERMECHANNICA stamped to hood/trunk hinges or IM numbered  sticker in right hand door opening.  CMC made a D option too.  If IM it is old VW old based one. Titled as a real Porsche will ensure you get stuck with high sales tax and yearly personal property tax (if you are in a state blessed with yearly taxes.

Thanks guys, yes it was just listed and not on their website yet so still available. Your insight above makes sense as the dealership is saying it is an IM that was built in California so I assume it is pretty old considering the last time it appears IM was in Cali?

I live in NY so thanks on the registration heads up. I noticed the same on the AC and how the radio unit hangs lower on the dash then the other IM's I have seen.

I will get more info. Thank you

Ed

IM moved from LA to Vancouver 1980ish.

1981 (or 1982) seems to be last year for US made pan based IMs.  That AC is propbly correct for that era car.  There may also be the IM Prancing bull on the front hood crest. $50k is up into the much newer tube frame IMs.  Talk to Phil Fear the Yorkie - his very nice watercooled IM is for sale in VA Beach VA.

https://www.speedsterowners.com/topic/selling-my-im-1

Look at Phil's car if you have any interest.

Phil has, like many of us, been a part of this community for a long time, and will continue to be a part of it. We are vested in the hobby and club. Your chances of getting a "good deal" from one of us may be better than buying from a broker or dealer.

We love these cars and we are, mostly, friends who are welcoming to folks who want to join the group.

I spent a couple of years on the site before I bought my car from a long time member, got the help of a mentor to guide me through some of the decision making ( thanks Stan Galat!).

I bought my car after having another SOC'er I trusted do an inspection. I read every post I could find from the seller looking for any hints of trouble with the car posted on the site.

It worked for me.

Considering a well known IM from a long time member might not be a bad idea, particularly since he is having another IM built.

Just some unsolicited advice, hope you take it in the spirit it is intended.

WTTM!

EdF posted:

Thanks guys, yes it was just listed and not on their website yet so still available. Your insight above makes sense as the dealership is saying it is an IM that was built in California so I assume it is pretty old considering the last time it appears IM was in Cali?

I live in NY so thanks on the registration heads up. I noticed the same on the AC and how the radio unit hangs lower on the dash then the other IM's I have seen.

I will get more info. Thank you

Ed

Then it is in no way a $50K car, even if it is an IM.

No offense Henry as you build an amazing car.

This is a $62,000 IM and the one at Gateway Classics isn't even close. http://www.ebay.com/itm/1958-P...TM5Y1CHQ&vxp=mtr

Thanks for the kind words Bob.  Some of us will always be SOCers. 

$63K for that car.

This makes me sad on about 5 levels. I really, really really want that car.

Yeah. That car is a beauty. I love the exhaust.  

Phil's car comes with a removable hard top, which can be a serious advantage depending on where you live.  It really is a nice one.

Looks like MUSBJIM's car.

Stan Galat, '05 IM, 2276, Nowhere, USA posted:

$63K for that car.

This makes me sad on about 5 levels. I really, really really want that car.

Stan:  I can loan you the $500.00 deposit, but the rest is up to you. 

@EdF there is an SOC'er @Rusty S who has a similar looking IM and is asking $40K and has a LOT of really nice upgrades.

Well everyday in the buy and sell business there is a guy called Tucker who is not informed for whatever reason who get taken advantage of.  You hope you never make the mistake of not doing sufficient research