Should I Get A Weekender

[michael_ozzie]

Hi,
First time posting in this area, normally in the B series forums, but have recently been looking at a weekender, namely a EF XR8 :

http://cgi.ebay.com.au/ws/eBayISAPI....#ht_500wt_1154

Messaged the bloke, needs the LPG checked and a roadworthy, no rego.
Seems to tick most of my boxes, being manual and V8, what I want in a weekender, and the added bonus of dual fuel is nice too.

So is the price its asking sound about right, too cheap/ too dear?

Also, is there anything I should be looking for specifically in these cars, as I have had no experience in any E series.

Thanks in advance,

[Sorted]

Price does not sound too cheap - there are a few EL XR8's for around $5,000 in the for sale section - LPG is a good option with an Xr8

Sunroof would top it off - nice colour - i would go see it in person before bidding though - wheels are worth $1,000 2nd hand on thier own but depends if they are gutterd or not

Stock EL XR8's as below

EL XR8 - NSW
http://www.fordforums.com.au/showthread.php?t=11305419

EL XR8 - QLD
http://www.fordforums.com.au/showthread.php?t=11305462

[michael_ozzie]

Yeah Sorted, I had seen these cars in the for sale area, which is what got these ideas in my head in the first place.

Unfortunately both of these cars are Auto's and I already have an auto BA, and hence would prefer to get a manual weekender.

Not too fussed on a sunroof, mainly concerned with condition of car and driveline, as I want a cheap weekender, not a car that needs 5000 in repairs to become a weekender.

[ZA-289]

I would spend the money on mods for your car. Otherwise you've got 2 rego's 2 insurance bills. etc etc, the list goes on. 4K would go a long way on your car.

[Powdered Toast Man]

I'm thinking the same as you michael ozzie, I too am after a weekender in the form of a manual V8 since my BA is auto. I'm waiting for something special to come along though.

I used to have an auto EF V8 and they are a pretty well sorted car. Just look for the usual 15 year old car issues of wear and tear. Look for leaking steering and noisy pulleys, worn suspension bushes etc. Like I said things you should check on any 15 year old car.

The old windsor is fairly bullet proof. Not exactly a powerhouse in the EF though if you are expecting dazzling performance. But if all you are after is a bit of manual V8 fun then a V8 e-series is a cheap toy.

Price sounds about right assuming it's in as good a condition as the seller says. I'd expect to pay about 5G for a good EF XR8, more if it came with reg and rwc.

[ZA-289]

Ok, who bought it then?

I have a confession to make..... I've been considering buying the same vehicle for 3-4days now

I decided against it to go with some more luxury as I'm looking for a new daily..

coughghiacough.

[michael_ozzie]

Well, unfortunately time was against me, and I didn't get a chance to look at it, and hence it has sold. So no, I did not buy it. Curses, i mean, well done to the new owner.

Anyway, will keep looking for that something.
Drove a mates EB XR8 on Friday which firmed my thoughts even more about a weekender.

I understand about the 2 rego's 2 insuances, etc. But considering the news I got from the mechanic at last service, the BA will more likely than not require that 4k in the next 2 years, and if I bought a ED/EF/EL before then, and it was on gas, could always have the option of using that as an every day driver.

Thanks for all your input guys.

[Dezza]

I had to debate the whole 2 rego thing in the last few weeks too. For me, as the EA has had a shocking run recently, and with the amount of money I've spent on it compared to what it's actually worth, I decided I'd still hold onto it and use it as a weekender. Having a 2nd car actually will allow me to spend more time on the EA. Beforehand it was always a case of having to get it going so I could get to work on Monday.

[ZA-289]

Oh spewing, I thought you had bought it. Would have been good if it went to a forum member. 2 cars isn't such a bad thing if you have the disposable income. Good luck with your hunt. Make sure you get manual and get some better diff gears in what ever you get.

[michael_ozzie]

Thanks guys for your help, will keep looking anyway.

[Sorted]

Originally Posted by michael_ozzie

Thanks guys for your help, will keep looking anyway.

How is your hunting going?

[michael_ozzie]

Good thanks sorted, couple of cars I am watching on ebay, see how they are going.
Still kicking myself for not looking at the EF as it looked like good value.