What's the best way to make a deal on a used car?

I am taking the plunge and buying a used Speedster and am looking for advice/suggestions, on the best and safest way to do the deal. I don't like the idea of sending the seller a bank draft and just hoping he is as honest as he sounds, and actually ships the car and completes and sends the proper paperwork. Any ideas?
Thanks for your help. Ron

I believe Paypal can serve as a third party, where you send them the check and they wait on the delivery of the goods (or proof that the goods are in transit) before the money order is forwarded to the selling party.

Have it checked out by a local (respected) mechanic.

David

I didn't even think of PayPal, but that is a reasonable option. I'm guessing the fees will be a bit high but it would work. I'm looking at getting the shipping company involved, but haven't heard back from them yet if they will do that, or perhaps the owner's bank manager. Comments?

If you go through a shipping company you might be abel to work something out that you send them the cashier's check, which they will give to the seller upon receipt of the vehicle (kinda like a UPS COD).

I tried that David. They don't want to handle any money.
Ron

Ron

If the money is your main concern talk to the Trust Department at your local bank, for a fee they will act as escrow agent and hold the money until the transaction is complete.

Karl

I'm curious how many of you purchased your Speedster without going and looking at the car first? And how many sent money for the car without engaging a third party?
Ron

I would never buy sight unseen. One mans treasure is another mans ... garbage? What you expect might not be what you get. You need to see it first. That's my 2 cents. Unless of course you got 20 grand to throw around.

(Message Edited 6/12/2003 8:48:15 PM)

Don't buy a car sight unseen. Ask me how I know...

The seller was a factory trained Mercedes mechanic, has owned a dozen Porsche's.

I spoke to his service manager boss. I even tracked down the dealership owner. All said the guy was dependable and trust worthy. Figured I could save the money to fly out and check out the car myself. Sigh. Uh-huh.

When the car arrived I got what I paid for, barely, but it certainly wasn't in the condition it was reputed to be in. Lesson learned.

If you are considering a car in the SoCal area, have Vintage or JPS Motorsports check it out for you. I would trust their feedback.

I