Date:         Thu, 9 Apr 1998 07:50:10 -0400
Reply-To:     Michael Sullivan <sullivan@OPENMARKET.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <Vanagon@vanagon.com>
From:         Michael Sullivan <sullivan@OPENMARKET.COM>
Organization: Open Market
Subject:      Re: FS: Price I should ask for '87 Syncro Westy?
Comments: To: vanagon@vanagon.com
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

I recently paid $12,000 for my '87 Syncro Westy with 89k miles. I think
your $16k asking price might be a bit high.

For what it's worth: my Westy was white with grey interior (is now VR6
yellow w/ gold pearlized clearcoat), had no power mirrors/windows/locks
(I fixed that), no locking-differential (sure wish it did),
"nothing-to-write-home-about" stereo (fixed that too), does have A/C
(probably doesn't work), light seam rust (gone now), new tires (replaced
with BFG 27x8.5 AT TA's), new muffler, overall good condition.

I've spent quite a bit of time and money getting power
mirrors/windows/locks installed, de-rusting/new paint, new rubber seals,
etc. The fact that you just spent $4,000 on yer tranny shouldn't affect
the asking price -- the tranny could go tomorrow, in spite of it's
recent renovation. However, IF yer Vanagon were in MINT shape (which it
seems it isn't) then perhaps it's worth what yer asking -- that is, if
the buyer values the list of features of yer van. I'd say, given what I
recently paid that perhaps $14k is more like it.

NOTE TO NON-BELIEVERS: The Syncro + Westy combination is worth A LOT
MORE than either the plain Syncro model or the plain Westfalia model.
While it is true you "could" buy a Syncro and convert it to a camper, it
still wouldn't be original and still wouldn't be worth as much.

Cheers,
MJS


RobHalliga wrote:

> I'm selling my '87 Syncro Westy with 78K miles.  I have a fellow interested in
> buying it, but we're having trouble agreeing on a price.  We've mutually
> agreed to seek advice from the diverse group af list subscibers.  My potential
> buyer will read the response off the archives.
>
> Anyone else interested in buying it can write me at RobHalligan@bigfoot.com
>
> Some list members are familiar with my van already.
>
> Description:
>
> '87 Syncro GL Westfalia. Maroon with grey interior.  Air Conditioning. 4 +
> granny tranny. Locking differential. Power mirrors. Bra. Decent cassette
> player. Rear heater.
>
> Condition:
>
> 78K miles.
>
> It's had almost every wear item replaced or rebuilt. Has original alternator
> and transmission.  Mostly dealer parts and labor.
>
> The heads and clutch were replaced at 73K miles.
>
> The Michelin MXT reinforced tires were replaced at 66.5K.
>
> The expensive, Syncro specific 1/2 of the exhaust at 55K
>
> Front wheel bearings, shocks, water pump, starter, control arm bushings,and
> sink pump replaced in past 20K.
>
> It has the air flow meter upgrade widget.
>
> Everything works.
>
> Cosmetically it looks almost new inside and out.  New pop top seal, some new
> carpet, roof vent, and new bumper ends.
>
> Problems:
>
> Propane tank could use a bead-blasting and paint.
>
> Brake rotor are getting there.
>
> Sway bar bushings and shifter bushings are getting there.
>
> Rattle in engine cover.
>
> Owners:
>
> Ist owner for 49 K - mostly long trips.
>
> 2nd owner put on about 3000 miles.
>
> I've driven it all around the U.S. for 2 years and 26K miles.
>
> Price:
>
> The price of an 11 year old vehicle is very subjective.
>
> I'm asking $16,000.
>
> What do you think it's worth?
>
> Thanks for your input,
> Rob Halligan


Michael J. Sullivan
Director of Catalog Design
Open Market Inc.

'87 GL Syncro Westfalia
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   work: http://www.openmarket.com
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