Detail Info for: LOW MIL. CA CAR - RECENTLY RESTORED - LONG TERM OWNER!
Transaction Info
Sold On:
07/04/2010
Price:
$ 6550.00
Condition:
Used
Mileage:
91650
Location:
Pleasanton, CA, 94566
Seller Type:
Dealer
Vehicle Specification
Year Make Model:
1982 Fiat Spider 2000
Submodel Body Type:
- NICE!! Convertible
Engine:
4 - Cyl.
Transmission:
Manual
VIN:
ZFAAS00B1c8188413
Vehicle Title:
Drive Train:
Fuel Type:
Gasoline
Standard Equipment:
Optional Equipment:
Vehicle Detail
1982 Fiat Spider Original California Car - Long Term "Mature" Owners Recently Restored w/ Fresh Engine, Interior, Top, & More! _______________________ NOTE: Our listings sometimes get rather lengthy. However, we continually hear from out of state / out of country buyers (the majority of our clients) that they prefer the level of detail that we provide. However, if you are not prepared to read multiple pages of description, we ask that you review the "Specifications" on the car along with viewing the photos. Also, if you'd prefer, please call us at 925-846-1451 and we'll gladly discuss the Austin Healey Sprite and answer any questions over the telephone, including about our Buy it Now policies. Yes, the Sprite can be purchased prior to the end of the eBay auction.Again, give us a call for details. ALSO, PLEASE NOTE: EACH TIME WE LIST A VEHICLE ON EBAY WE RECEIVE COMMENTS THAT THERE ARE NO PHOTOS OF THE INTERIOR, ENGINE, UNDERCARRIAGE, ETC. OF THE CAR. THERE ARE 100 PHOTOS OF ALL AREAS OF THE CAR BUT, WHEN YOU REACH WHAT APPEARS TO BE THE LAST PHOTO, YOU WILL NEED TO SCROLL TO VIEW THE REMAINING PHOTOS. IF YOU ARE STILL UNABLE TO SEE THE PHOTOS, PLEASE CALL US AT 925-846-1451 AND WE WILL PROVIDE A LINK FOR THE PHOTOS (IT IS A VIOLATION OF EBAY POLICY TO LIST THE URL ON THE EBAY LISTING). Finally, all our photos are taken in a completely natural setting with no artificial lighting or gimmicks. We take considerable pride in our presentation and absolutely NO retouching or "Photoshop" work is performed on any of the photos contained in our eBay listing or Website! THANK YOU! CLASSIC CARS LTD. ************************** ABOUT THE FIAT SPIDER In April 1966 FIAT started production of the Fiat 124 with a push-rod 1187cc engine. Working at Fiat was the legendary engine specialist Aurelio Lampredi, who, while at Ferrari had brought about the down-fall of the mighty Fiat Romeo 158/9s in 1952 with his un-supercharged 4.5 litre Ferraris. When Vittorio Jano joined Ferrari with the disbanded Lancia team in 1955, Lampredi moved to Fiat. After designing the 1300, 1500 and 2300 engines, he drew up the classical twin cam engine designs for the Ferrari Dino V6, and 124 Spider. Prototypes of the 124 Spider were tested in April 1966 and the first car was shown at the Turin Show in November 1966. Initial cars were powered with 1438cc engines, later enlarged to 1608cc, 1756cc, and finally 1995cc in final form. The Spider had a close affiliation with Pininfarina, as that styling house was responsible for design and also the building, painting and trimming of the actual bodies on the Fiat 124 cars. Fiat decided to target the USA as the main market, and had very good success with the Fiat as a comfortable, fun to drive, open air, sports car. The Fiats were nicely equipped sports cars, including the following standard equipment on the 1982 models: - 2.0 Litre (1995 cc) Twin Overhead Cam Engine - 5-Speed, Fully Synchronized Transmission - Independent Suspension - Front Anti Sway Bar - Power Assisted 4-Wheel Disc Brakes - Steel Belted Radial Tires - Tan Convertible Top Boot - Front Bucket Seats - Adjustable Head Rests - Electronic Tachometer - Water Temperature, Oil Pressure & Voltmeter Gauges - Padded 3-Spoke Sport Steering Wheel - 2 Speed Electronic Washer/Wipers - Dual Power Side View Mirrors - Vent Windows - Day/Night Rear View Mirror - Tinted Glass THIS 1982 FIAT SPIDER 2000 CONVERTIBLE In addition to the original equipment listed above, this particular Fiat has had significant mechanical and cosmetic improvements. By category, the is following a summary of some of the upgrades followed by a more in depth description of the Fiats overall condition. HIGHLIGHTS OF THE 1982 FIAT SPIDER 2000 - Original California car since new - Two owners - Old style California multi-color title - Most recent owner for 15 years (master mechanic) - Considerable recent upgrades both cosmetic and mechanical - New Paint - Upgraded Interior - New Top - New Chromodora wheels (chromed) - Tan convertible top "Boot" - Freshly rebuilt engine - New Brakes - New tires - Suspension - New water Pump - New hoses - Fresh tune-up - Oil service - Very well maintained & serviced professionally MECHANICAL It is very important to note that this car has been owned for over 15 years by the current owner and that the car carries the original multi-colored "Pink slip" as evidence of its life in California. IMPORTANT NOTE: The title also supports that he car has always been in California since the Date First Sold is 1983. - Recent Clean Car Fax Report - Freshly rebuilt engine with new valve job - New water pump - New thermostat - New timing belt - New brakes, rotors and other components - Suspension components replaced as needed - Recent tune-up - New brake fluid - Fresh minor service (oil, filter,lube, etc.) - Freshly tuned - New tires (High Quality BF Goodrich Touring T/A's) COSMETIC - Complete re-paint with much trim removed / replaced as necessary - Replacement interior panels (as required) including the always cracked center console! - Recent high quality cloth in contrasting tan (not the inexpensive vinyl as was found on the original car) - Virtually new, authentic Italian Cromodora wheels (Chromed) in like new condition HISTORY OF THIS PARTICULAR CAR Not only was this Fiat owned by a "mature" enthusiast owner for 15 years, the owner was a master mechanic that owns a company that provides training for mechanics. As a result, he completed all of the necessary service / maintenance on the Fiat to keep it in top running condition for use by himself and his wife. This Fiat was their personal occasional weekend car and a car that they did not anticipate they would ever sell. But, these days, unfortunately, circumstances change and the Fiat now needs to find a new home after 15+ years. The major items, including the rebuilt engine, suspension, top and paint, low mileage and limited ownership put this Fiat Spider in a category all of its own when compared with most of the Fiat Spiders offered on eBay and other Internet sources. And, perhaps most important this is a documented California car that has never had any rust ! BODY / TRIM / TOP The body is finished in an absolutely striking shade of red. When the car was repainted, the color received the benefit of slightly more metallic and is absolutely brilliant in its appearance. The Fiat received a total re-paint within the past few years including the rear trunk underside, the door jambs and under the hood. The paint is very high gloss with no peeling, fading or damage. Consistent with a car that has received recent paint, the car's exterior has the appearance of a much later model Fiat. The Fiat is virtually free from scratches/door dings and the body has no major dents, dings or damage. While the paint is not show quality and shows some signs of orange peel and minor imperfections, it is good and receives considerable attention. There is no indication that the car has ever been involved in an accident or had any major damage of any kind nor is there an indication that any panels have been replaced. The Car Fax report supports this assumption. The interior is finished in one of favorite Fiat colors, a lovely shade of tan accented with a combination of tan and black, and has the stock Fiat seats. The Fiat has an almost new tan convertible top with a perfectly clear rear window. Also included with the Fiat is a rear convertible top "boot" cover that covers the convertible top when it is in the down position. The "boot" is included and in good condition. We find that more often than not, the covers are missing and the cover needs to be repaired/replaced, but would make an excellent pattern for an easily made replacement. An inspection of the body (including the undercarriage), reveals that the car is totally free from rust, pitting or major damage to the body. There are absolutely no signs of rust on the typical rust prone areas of the Fiat, as a result of its life in California. An inspection of the rocker panels, rear lower fenders, under hood area, spare tire "well", and undercarriage reveals a dry, clean and rust free car. This is extremely important on the older Fiats as many of the cars in rust prone areas Regions of the country suffer from considerable rust in both the chassis and bodies. The doors, hood, and trunk line up extremely well, with even gaps, and close easily and securely. The underside of the hood is very clean and free of dirt, oil and grease, and was repainted during the re-paint of the car. The door locks operate properly as does the lock on the glove box door. The trunk releases with the inside release, as per factory specifications, and has a working lock on the handle, located inside of the passenger compartment. The rear convertible is in remarkable condition, with a perfectly clear rear window. The top has been protected with a towel when the top is "stowed." There are no tears or signs of wear on the top. As the photographs reflect, it is in beautiful condition and the folding mechanism operates freely and easily, and is free from scratches, damage, etc. The convertible top on the Fiat Spider can be raised and lowered with one hand, in just seconds, unlike some of the early British cars that require assembly of the tops. The exterior trim on the Fiat is in very good original condition. The front and rear bumpers have no pitting, rust or damage. All of the plastic trim and other exterior moldings are free from damage and in excellent condition. The side windows are free from cracks and damage, and operate perfectly. The front windshield is free from any cracks, stars or damage and the chrome surrounding it is also very good. INTERIOR The interior remains in virtually stock condition throughout. The factory door panels, rear seats and carpeting are in place, and in really nice condition. The interior center console was replaced to eliminate the "crack prone" console and this made a significant difference in the appearance of the interior. The center console itself has been replaced. The dash is finished in black, as are the door panels and center console. There are only minor, typical cracks on the dash. The Fiat interior is a nice combination of original and replacement items and in generally good condition with the exception of a few minor "chips" in the lower dash pad (knee pad) near the glove box area. There is also some minor crazing / cracking on the upper portion of the driver's side door. These minor imperfections are very common on the Fiat's and in this case they do not detract from the overall appearance of the car. Overall, the door panels are in very good condition and do not have speakers drilled in the panels. The retracting seat belts are original, free of any fraying or damage, as are the receiving parts of the seat belt units. The door sills and door jambs are clean and free from dirt and grease. The car has an upgraded radio and speaker set-up and a hidden amplifier (shown in the trunk photos) that is not working at this time but the radio works just fine. Frankly, we prefer the note of pleasing exhaust system to the radio. The lights, gauges, and entire electrical system is 100% functional including the Blaupunkt stereo system with removable faceplate. The trunk contains the original carpet and the factory original spare and jack. The trunk is totally free from any rust, signs of leakage, or damage. It is extremely tidy. The trunk "well" (refer to photos on Website) is 100% free from rust, damage or moisture. ENGINE & MECHANICAL COMPONENTS The Fiat runs and drives extremely well. As a fuel injected car, the car starts immediately when warm or cold. The care that this car has received becomes apparent with one glance under the hood. The engine bay is very tidy with no signs of excessive oil or leaking. The undercarriage is also very clean. The Fiat has been inspected, and found to be very strong mechanically including major components such as engine and transmission, rear end, brakes and suspension. As we have said, it has been exceptionally well maintained, garaged, and pampered. The engine is very strong and does not smoke, leak, or exhibit any problems. The Fiat idles smoothly at just below 1000 rpm, and does not hesitate, have any unusual noises or issues. The transmission is excellent and all of the syncromesh gears function perfectly. There is no excessive noise in the driveline and the clutch engages properly, and without slippage, chattering or fuss. The brakes work great and stop the car straight and sure. The car passed the last safety inspection, with no findings/needs. The emergency brake is functional and correctly adjusted. The engine and engine bay are very clean, and free from excessive oil, dirt and grease. We have owned/driven a large number of Fiat cars over the years, and can say with confidence, that this is an excellent running/driving car that will provide years of future enjoyment. MISCELLANEOUS FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ) 1. Has it received a safety / light inspection? Yes, the car has been checked for turn signals, brake lights, and license plate lights. 2. What is the total mileage on the Fiat? The odometer currently shows 91,650 and based on the records, there is chronological documentation that the miles are correct and the Car Fax supports the miles, as well. 3. Was the work completed by professionals? Yes, all of the mechanical work was done professionally, and to a high standard. No backyard or "Do it yourself" mechanic has worked on this Fiat. 4. What were the results of inspections? The Fiat passed with no problem and no safety issues were identified. 5. Will the car pass smog in California? Yes, in fact it just did within the previous 30 days and California buyer's will receive evidence of the current smog results. 6. What are the cars needs (if any) at this time? The vehicle is in very nice cosmetic condition and, as we have indicated, runs and drives well. The car has been very well cared for over the years and it shows. There are no actual needs at this time (see below). 7. Does the car have seat belts? Yes, factory shoulder harnesses (no belts in the rear area). 8. What is the condition of the convertible top and does the frame work function well. The convertible is really excellent with a clear window. It shows no signs of fading and is not ripped, torn or damaged and seals well. When replaced it was upgraded to the considerably more durable, cloth top that will not only last longer but looks significantly better than the less costly standard equipment vinyl top. The frame is raised and lowered easily and all of the latches (even the fasteners that hold the front clasps!) are in place. 9. Can we have the vehicle inspected? Absolutely, we encourage inspections of this Fiat by serious, qualified individuals, or professional inspection companies. All we ask is that you call us at 925-846-1451 to arrange a convenient time since we are in and out of our offices quite a bit. We are unable to allow inspections 24 hours prior to the end of the auction as we are closed on Sunday. 10. Can you provide some "ballpark" costs of shipping costs around the United States? Yes, on a fully insured, ENCLOSED carrier (we do not recommend the more common "open" transporters for a car of this caliber) and delivered to your door, about $1500.00 for most of the East Coast, $1300.00 to some of the Southern States, and around $1000 to points in the Midwest. The cost to Los Angeles would be in the area of $500.00. PLEASE check with us as these are just estimates, NOT firm shipping costs, and rates are changing regularly due to fuel costs, exact locations, and other factors. PURCHASING A COLLECTOR VEHICLE - THINGS TO CONSIDER As always, we recommend that you carefully review the seller's background of any collector car being sold over the Internet. We believe that it is important to ask yourself a number of questions including, but not limited to: - How long have they been in business? - How much experience do they have with collector cars? - How many positive collector car vehicle sales have completed (positive EBay feedback)? - How detailed/complete is the description of the vehicle? - Do the photos show details of the interior, exterior, top, chrome, etc. or are they simply "Glamour Shots" taken from a distance? - Does the seller have a surety bond to protect the financial transaction? - What about insurance, licensing by the state, and a local business license? - Does the seller (if a business) have any DMV (Motor Vehicle) complaints and/or other history of legal action, grievances? - Do they enjoy a favorable local and national/international reputation? - Can the seller assist with funding sources, transport and out of state/country sales? ABOUT CLASSIC CARS LTD. * Classic Cars Ltd. has been in the same, small, California town for over 16 years. We operate a small, indoor showroom, and specialize in the sale, consignment, and purchase of sports, high performance and specialty vehicles of all types. We have a particular interest in sports cars and unique vehicles. * The majority of our vehicles come from local, private owners and collectors, and many were sold new in California. We appreciate that rust free cars, with excellent documentation and history are especially attractive to our buyers both locally, and around the country. As a result, we do not purchase our collectible cars from "distressed" sales, such as wholesale auctions, salvage sales, or lien sales. We do not sell vehicles with salvage titles, or those that have a history of significant accident damage or repair. * We are fully insured, bonded, and licensed for collector car sales all over the United States/World. * We have operated a "brick & mortar" business in the same small town for over 16 years * We are fully insured and licensed for collector car sales * Classic Cars Ltd. carries a $50,000 Surety bond to cover financial transactions * We enjoy excellent relationships with a number of transport companies and, as a result, can often times obtain preferred pricing for vehicle shipping. Please give us a call and we will be glad to refer you to suitable transport companies. Needless to say, we would recommend a quality, enclosed transporter that is experience with moving high quality, collectible cars. * We frequently sell vehicles to out of state buyers / out of country buyers, and are proud of our 100% positive EBay feedback ratings on 550+ transactions. Please review our EBay feedback for specific comments on our service to our customers. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION * In addition to the purchase price, California buyers will be subject to sales tax, documentation fee, and DMV transfer fees. Out of state buyers will be responsible for the purchase price of the vehicle with any taxes/fess paid in their respective state. * IMPORTANT: PLEASE NOTE...If the vehicle is delivered or driven in California, sales tax and other license, registration & transfer fees for California buyers. * We encourage telephone calls to discuss in greater details the condition/specifics of this absolutely lovely Thunderbird convertible. It is difficult to fully describe how nice an example this is, but we welcome "walk around" telephone discussions in order to answer any questions that you may have. * We will be glad to discuss a sale of the car prior to the end of the listing on EBay, and ask that interested parties call us at 925-846-1451 for additional information/specifics. * Please review our feedback on EBay (user name never22many) for our history of successful sales to out of state/country buyers. Our feedback consists of a total of over 550+ positive transactions on EBay. * As with any collectible vehicle of this vintage we are unable to provide a warranty or guarantee of condition. However, we make every effort to accurately represent our vehicles, and highlight both positive items as well as areas that require attention. We ask that prospective buyers consider our eBay history/feedback, standing in the community, length of time in business, and other factors when purchasing a collectible vehicle from Classic Cars Ltd. Finally, please keep in mind that, as with any used vehicle, minor cosmetic issues/flaws may be present that add to the "patina" of the car and are a part of even the best restoration of a vintage/collectible vehicle. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION / COMMENTS * We always receive questions about the "Buy it Now" price on our vehicles. We will sell the Fiat Spider prior to the auction but ask that interested individuals contact us by telephone to discuss the details of the car. In this way, we can answer any questions that you may have about the car itself, provide shipping information, etc. We will not respond to emails asking the reserve price of the Fiat, but will be glad to discuss the car with you if you have a serious interest in owning the Fiat. * As with any car of this vintage minor imperfections can be expected. However, we make every effort to do our best to describe the vehicles strengths along with any issues that we may be aware of with the car. Our eBay feedback reflects our success in accurately representing the cars that we sell. Thank You! Classic Cars Ltd. Specifications: Body Type / Style:Coupe Exterior Color:Red Interior Color:Tan Engine:V4 Transmission: 5 Speed Manual Mileage:91,660 Drive:Rear Doors:2 Terms & Conditions 25% of the total winning bid is due within 72 hours of the end of the auction. The remaining balance is due within 7 days of the close of the auction. In addition to the winning bid/agreed purchase amount the buyer of this vehicle will be subject to a $195.00 fee for processing/administration. The charge will apply if the vehicle is purchased through ebay or before or after the auction, directly through Classic Cars Ltd. Since this vehicle is listed for sale elsewhere, we reserve the right to end the auction at anytime due to prior sale of the vehicle. We will be glad to discuss the sale of the car prior to the end of the eBay auction. Inspections of vehicles (by appointment only) must be completed within 24 hours of the end of the auction. Out of state buyers are responsible for the high bid and any shipping costs. California buyers are subject to the appropriate sales tax, DMV transfer, and fees associated with the purchase of any used vehicle sale in the state of California. We mail, via Priority Mail, transferable documents within 48 hours of the transfer of funds unless, of course, the transaction is local. While shipping and transportation costs (if appropriate) are the responsibility of the winning bidder, we can assist with locating a suitable transporter. We regularly ship cars all over the USA/World, and can often times locate very competitive rates for transporting vehicles door to door, to a local terminal, enclosed, open, etc. Please call us for specific information/rates to your location. We meet some great people and fellow enthusiasts, and only rarely do we have problems with non-paying bidders. Please be certain that you are prepared to buy the car if you bid, or call us at 925-846-1451 before the end of the auction if we can answer any questions. If you have a "sunglass" rating or fewer than 10 feedback ratings on eBay, please call us before you bid so that we can discuss the bidding process, etc. If we do not hear form you, we reserve the right to delete your bid. Thank You & Happy Bidding Classic Cars Ltd. On Jun-24-10 at 22:42:11 PDT, seller added the following information: Sellers: Delight buyers. Get your own map of past buyers.
