Edmunds Members - Cars and Conversations (Archived)

snakeweasel

abacomike said:

I'm watching the Chicago Blackhawk hockey game on NBC sports network.  I am an avid Blackhawk fan - our Panthers are a "not ready for prime time" team.  I would love to see the Blackhawks move to next next level. 

The Blackhawks are going to give this city a heart attack before they are done.

Brownie points for who can tell us who or what the Blackhawks are named after.

nyccarguy

@graphicguy - that's a nice Mustang for sure.  The guy will come around eventually.  

What's going on with your wife?  Is she still in China?

graphicguy

oldfarmer50 said:

graphicguy said:

imidazol97 said:

That's the color....identical.

Mr Shiftright.....I'll take your number as "the number" as you know better than I do. Going to look at it again here in about an hour or so.

Bring flowers for the wife...I'm not kidding.

OF...not a bad idea...not bad at all!

abacomike

snakeweasel said:

I'm watching the Chicago Blackhawk hockey game on NBC sports network.  I am an avid Blackhawk fan - our Panthers are a "not ready for prime time" team.  I would love to see the Blackhawks move to next next level. 

The Blackhawks are going to give this city a heart attack before they are done. Brownie points for who can tell us who or what the Blackhawks are named after.

Blackhawks named after founder who led a battalion called the Blackhawks.  That's what I remember.  1920's I believe.  My wife and I had season tickets at Chicago Stadium and never missed a home game.

oldfarmer50

graphicguy said:

So....took another look at the Mustang Cobra SVT. It's all that and a bag of chips. Fun car. Strong drivetrain. Everything works. Top is in good shape. Surprisingly comfortable given how well it handles. Didn't push it since the tires were showing some signs of dry rot, but it will scoot. Trans and clutch are heavy compared to today's standards, but it all works as it should.

It will rev, which is fun. Didn't take it to redline because it was a cold start. But did take it to about 5,500 RPM. Redline is 7K. It feels like it will do that all day long.

It makes great sounds. It's also bone stock, which I like.

As mentioned, some dry rot on the tires. Tread is good, but wouldn't want to take a chance with them....especially given I would probably drive.....well....at speeds that I shouldn't.

It's been well cared for, but not driven much, at least not lately. I told him it was a nice car. I made no secret of my interest.

He wanted $12K, and said he really wasn't sure he wanted to sell it. I told him we were too far apart and I would not insult him with my offer. He wanted to know what my offer was, though.

I told him the only amount I could come up with was $8,500. He proceeded to tell me again he didn't have to sell it. I told him he should keep it then because it is a very nice car.

I thanked him for his time and started making me way towards me car. He followed me down the driveway and asked if I was willing to go $10K. So, he seemed a bit more willing to negotiate. I told him it was well over my budget, but I'd think about it.

I want to do more research. Good car, though.

From what I've seen online $10k seems reasonable for that condition and milage. I'd offer $9500 and go home happy if didn't work out.

Friend sent me this. If you can't make a deal on the Stang you could try one of these.

https://www.ford.com/performance/gt/?srccode=500291&cks=59315925908&emailid=16q2_ford_xoxx_apr_nl#nextgen

Hope it loads as it was glitchy on my iPad.

nyccarguy

You learn something new every day.  I never knew you were such a hockey fan Mike.  

snakeweasel

abacomike said:

snakeweasel said:

I'm watching the Chicago Blackhawk hockey game on NBC sports network.  I am an avid Blackhawk fan - our Panthers are a "not ready for prime time" team.  I would love to see the Blackhawks move to next next level. 

The Blackhawks are going to give this city a heart attack before they are done.

Brownie points for who can tell us who or what the Blackhawks are named after.

Blackhawks named after founder who led a battalion called the Blackhawks.  That's what I remember.  1920's I believe.  My wife and I had season tickets at Chicago Stadium and never missed a home game.

A machine gun battalion during WW I. You get the brownie points, brownie points are totally worthless and can be redeemed at fine stores everywhere.

abacomike

nyccarguy said:

You learn something new every day.  I never knew you were such a hockey fan Mike.  

Most exciting sport to watch.  Constant action - non-stop!  Love the Blackhawks - but they are losing in game 7! 

abacomike

snakeweasel said:

snakeweasel said:

I'm watching the Chicago Blackhawk hockey game on NBC sports network.  I am an avid Blackhawk fan - our Panthers are a "not ready for prime time" team.  I would love to see the Blackhawks move to next next level. 

The Blackhawks are going to give this city a heart attack before they are done. Brownie points for who can tell us who or what the Blackhawks are named after.

Blackhawks named after founder who led a battalion called the Blackhawks.  That's what I remember.  1920's I believe.  My wife and I had season tickets at Chicago Stadium and never missed a home game.

A machine gun battalion during WW I. You get the brownie points, brownie points are totally worthless and can be redeemed at fine stores everywhere.

Story of my life - I win but I lose!

graphicguy

oldfarmer50 said:

graphicguy said:

So....took another look at the Mustang Cobra SVT. It's all that and a bag of chips. Fun car. Strong drivetrain. Everything works. Top is in good shape. Surprisingly comfortable given how well it handles. Didn't push it since the tires were showing some signs of dry rot, but it will scoot. Trans and clutch are heavy compared to today's standards, but it all works as it should.

It will rev, which is fun. Didn't take it to redline because it was a cold start. But did take it to about 5,500 RPM. Redline is 7K. It feels like it will do that all day long.

It makes great sounds. It's also bone stock, which I like.

As mentioned, some dry rot on the tires. Tread is good, but wouldn't want to take a chance with them....especially given I would probably drive.....well....at speeds that I shouldn't.

It's been well cared for, but not driven much, at least not lately. I told him it was a nice car. I made no secret of my interest.

He wanted $12K, and said he really wasn't sure he wanted to sell it. I told him we were too far apart and I would not insult him with my offer. He wanted to know what my offer was, though.

I told him the only amount I could come up with was $8,500. He proceeded to tell me again he didn't have to sell it. I told him he should keep it then because it is a very nice car.

I thanked him for his time and started making me way towards me car. He followed me down the driveway and asked if I was willing to go $10K. So, he seemed a bit more willing to negotiate. I told him it was well over my budget, but I'd think about it.

I want to do more research. Good car, though.

From what I've seen online $10k seems reasonable for that condition and milage. I'd offer $9500 and go home happy if didn't work out.

Friend sent me this. If you can't make a deal on the Stang you could try one of these.

https://www.ford.com/performance/gt/?srccode=500291&cks=59315925908&emailid=16q2_ford_xoxx_apr_nl#nextgen

Hope it loads as it was glitchy on my iPad.

Loaded fine! Would love a GT. Bit expensive for something that will end up as a 6 month toy!

jmonroe

Mike said:

I would love to see the Blackhawks move to next next level.
____________________________________________________________________________

Me, I'd rather see the Penguins move on. The way the Pens are playing right now is scary good.

I have 3 grandsons who play hockey. One is a Capitals fan, one is a Flyers fan and one is a Penguins fan. Go figure.

Since the Pens will be playing the Capitals in the next round, one grandson (grandson #2, the best player of all of them) will be in hockey heaven.

jmonroe

fezo

My hockey fun is over, but the Devils had a nice run with three more Stanley Cups than I ever expected them to get when they first came here from Colorado.

Hockey on TV is OK Hockey live is insanely good.

Gg - if you replace those dry rotted tires it won't be bone stock anymore.....

Michaell

My first hockey game was at the old Nassau coliseum to see the islanders play. Insane!

Have since caught a couple of Avs games here in Denver.

nyccarguy

2 of my sons play hockey. My oldest is a Squirt. He's on one of the travel teams. My younger son is going to be a Mite this year. He's just going to play in the house league for now. If they come up with a "travel lite" team mid season, we'll most likely sign him up for that.

We are Rangers fans in our house. My wife is from Long Island and grew up an Islanders fan, but she has been shown the ways of the light side of the force:). We were at my In-Laws last night for Passover. Since my wife's family are Islander fans, we watched the 1st 2 periods of the Islanders vs Panthers game. My Father In Law said to my boys: "Since the Rangers lost to Pittsburgh, are you guys going to root for the Islanders now in there Playoffs?" They responded in unison: "NO WAY! GO PANTHERS!"

A good friend of mine in High School was able to get tickets to lots of premiere sporting events from his Mom who was a high level ad executive. He took me to a quite a few Rangers games during our senior year (1994) including game 2 of the Stanley Cup Finals. I saw Wayne Gretzky play as a Ranger too. The Garden LOVED The Great One!

The Penguins gave the Rangers a beat down for sure. The Rangers always put a good team on the ice year after year, but the Penguins had their number this year. Crosby has been unstoppable since Christmas.

andres3

snakeweasel said:

andres3 said:

snakeweasel said:

andres3 said:

I'd argue diminished value occurs the second the accident happens. One moment the owner can sell his vehicle for full market value, the next second, you are looking at 60 days of repairs and it'll never sell for full market value again. Your ability to sell property has been diminished immediately; the loss occurs instantly. Is the loss mitigated by keeping the car; yes. However, that shouldn't be the owners problem. Claims should be based on the date of loss, period, end of story.

Regardless of when it occurs it isn't realized until the vehicle is disposed of, if you even realize it. Once the vehicle is repaired you are pretty much made whole. Your car is back and properly running and looks like it did prior to the accident. Any diminished value isn't realized until it is sold and then it is nearly impossible to quantify the "loss" or even if it occured.

Used car managers have no problem assessing diminished value. It only seems insurance people have a problem with it. It is always realized unless you find a buyer that doesn't care, which is unlikely to happen. A car that has been repaired is never the same, and will never look the same. 100% of trained used car manager's will know when a vehicle has been repaired 100% of the time; that tells you something. It's not 99%, it's 100% no matter how good the body shop is. The quantity of diminished value is the difference you'd be able to get selling your car unblemished on the free market vs. what you can get with the damaged car.

Used car managers work on the theory of buy low and sell high. So I would suspect that that "diminished value" shrinks to practically nothing come time to sell that used car. I had a used car manager tell me that the transmission of the car I wanted to trade in was about to go so he couldn't give us much for a trade in. We didn't buy from them and eventually decided not to buy. We drove that car another 100K miles with no transmission issues.

Well, if they are being ethical you can't certify a used car that has been tainted moderately or severely by accident. Not being able to sell it as a "certified" used car lowers the buy low sell high possibilities for the dealership.

andres3

qbrozen said:

andres3 said:

If you are really concerned, you should look at trucks, semi's, airplanes, trains, ships/boats, and more that pollute far more than little 4-banger VW's.

Again, why compare one to another in this case? Someone goes on a mass murdering spree with a chainsaw and another kills one person with a knife, and you are saying the one with the knife should get a pass because it wasn't as gruesome? Any comparison is just silly. Like I said, this isn't a contest and isn't graded on a curve.

Yes, but the big difference is murder isn't a totally arbitrary rule of law that only began 10 years ago. Murder is considered wrong and unethical in addition to a law that hasn't changed in centuries. When cars of 10 or 20, or 30 years ago are treated differently for no reason other than being "grandfathered" it creates a general feeling of ridiculousness.

Sort of like 55 MPH speed limits.

andres3

imidazol97 said:

andres3 said:

If you are really concerned, you should look at trucks, semi's, airplanes, trains, ships/boats, and more that pollute far more than little 4-banger VW's.

I'll look at the laws applicable to the particular vehicles in question and Volkswagen/Audi/Porsche company blatantly violated them with intent to deceive. The punishment should be complete disbanding of the company and selling the parts to the highest bidder.

I'll treat this the same way many did want to treat GM--and some still do want to complain about the long gone GM/C bailout.

Surprised you didn't mention the ignition switch debacle which wasn't fixed in a timely manner deliberately, which means that was direct intent to kill indirectly over time.

Of course, people should complain about the bailouts until GM at least pays back taxpayers for the next to worthless GM stock that lost taxpayers billions upon billions of dollars. Even then, people should complain. The Democrats certainly paid dearly for it in 2012 and 2014.

imidazol97

andres3 said:

Of course, people should complain about the bailouts until GM at least pays back taxpayers for the next to worthless GM stock that lost taxpayers billions upon billions of dollars. Even then, people should complain.

Ridiculous. Old news. LOL.

Let's talk about the VW/Audi intentional cheating scandal. How long did VW/Audi drag out the admission?
Gotta love those dealers still soldiering on. Mitsubishi just admitted to intentionally cheating on mileage or pollution standards as well.

graphicguy

fezo said:

My hockey fun is over, but the Devils had a nice run with three more Stanley Cups than I ever expected them to get when they first came here from Colorado.

Hockey on TV is OK Hockey live is insanely good.

Gg - if you replace those dry rotted tires it won't be bone stock anymore.....

fezo...excellent point about the tires.

Now, we wait, to see if he calls me back first, or I call him back first, or we don't call each other at all.

There' the practical GG that says "you don't need a Cobra, it's an indulgence that makes no sense". Then, there's the impractical GG that keeps saying "...you've had a tough year. You deserve it. Buy it and drive it like you stole it, every chance you get."

None of us here like leaving money on the table when buying a vehicle. I think $10K, while not unreasonable, becomes $11K with new shoes. And, that is on the high side, regardless of how good condition the car is. $8,500 + $1K for tires puts it in the reasonable category.

Seller thinks the tires are fine. Dry rot is obvious to me, and not something I want on a car that's likely to be driven a bit aggressively.

That's where we're at.

graphicguy

nyccarguy said:

@graphicguy - that's a nice Mustang for sure.  The guy will come around eventually.  

What's going on with your wife?  Is she still in China?

Bradd...we'll see about the Cobra. At this juncture, it's not even about the money. As the pros here have always said, owners value the cars they're trying to sell more than the guy who's trying to buy. True in this case. If the tires were right, I probably would have written the guy a check.

Seller has his number in mind, that he seemed to come down. I've got my number, which I think is fair. It's certainly not a low ball.

As Old Farmer said, I think his wife will eventually either tell him to sell it to me, or tell him to hold onto it. That kind of car, he's going to have every pubescent teen trying to jump into the driver's seat and try to scrape Washingtons together to buy it.

As I told him, I don't have to ask permission, get financing, etc. I'd be bringing a cashier's check.

Wife....well, yes she's still in China. Best I can tell, she's not coming back, at least not in the foreseeable future. That makes things move at a snail's pace because she has assets here (like her Accord) that I can't do anything with and she can't/won't make arrangements to dispose of/find a new home for. And, getting signatures when it's hard to prove that her signature is indeed her signature (which I'm certain it is) is a gargantuan effort in and of itself.

She has a brother here, but he lives in CA. He doesn't want to have any part of this fiasco, so he won't act on her behalf. She has an aunt who lives close, so she is acting as her representative. She's elderly and really shouldn't be burdened with this. She seems to be so paralyzed when confronted with making any decisions for her niece.

But, there are all sort of repercussions if this continues to linger, and something happens to her, or to me. The aunt now has power of attorney. So, I'm hopeful we can accelerate this. It's like herding cats to get this thing to move along.

Didn't mean to dump on you guys.

nyccarguy

@graphicguy - I asked because I do care and you had mentioned it a while back.  I just wanted the update.  What a mess.  People are so strange.

Michaell

@graphicguy - no worries, dump all you want. Good that things are moving forward, albeit at a snails pace.

I suppose I ought to update you guys as well on the job loss / job search.

It's been almost 8 weeks since I got my layoff notice. I've been going through the outplacement program and have polished up my resume and LinkedIn profile. Have taken lots of webinars - negotiation strategy, interviewing, etc. There is a networking event every Wednesday morning that I've been attending - meeting new people. I've submitted a couple dozen applications .. not much response yet, but I did land one interview last week. First external interview I've had in 20+ years (!). Went reasonably well, but stumbled on a couple of questions. Good learning experience.

One things my coach is suggesting is that I build up my network ... and that's where you fine folks come in. The idea is that you may know someone who knows someone who is looking for an experienced person to join their team.

I'd love to connect with you on LinkedIn to begin that process. My profile can be found here:

www.linkedin.com/in/pmichaellogue

And, should you want to reach out to me via email, I can always be reached at my Edmunds email address:

michaell(at)Edmunds(dot)com

abacomike

graphicguy said:

@graphicguy - that's a nice Mustang for sure.  The guy will come around eventually.  

What's going on with your wife?  Is she still in China?

Bradd...we'll see about the Cobra. At this juncture, it's not even about the money. As the pros here have always said, owners value the cars they're trying to sell more than the guy who's trying to buy. True in this case. If the tires were right, I probably would have written the guy a check. Seller has his number in mind, that he seemed to come down. I've got my number, which I think is fair. It's certainly not a low ball. As Old Farmer said, I think his wife will eventually either tell him to sell it to me, or tell him to hold onto it. That kind of car, he's going to have every pubescent teen trying to jump into the driver's seat and try to scrape Washingtons together to buy it. As I told him, I don't have to ask permission, get financing, etc. I'd be bringing a cashier's check. Wife....well, yes she's still in China. Best I can tell, she's not coming back, at least not in the foreseeable future. That makes things move at a snail's pace because she has assets here (like her Accord) that I can't do anything with and she can't/won't make arrangements to dispose of/find a new home for. And, getting signatures when it's hard to prove that her signature is indeed her signature (which I'm certain it is) is a gargantuan effort in and of itself. She has a brother here, but he lives in CA. He doesn't want to have any part of this fiasco, so he won't act on her behalf. She has an aunt who lives close, so she is acting as her representative. She's elderly and really shouldn't be burdened with this. She seems to be so paralyzed when confronted with making any decisions for her niece. But, there are all sort of repercussions if this continues to linger, and something happens to her, or to me. The aunt now has power of attorney. So, I'm hopeful we can accelerate this. It's like herding cats to get this thing to move along. Didn't mean to dump on you guys.

You're not "dumping" on us.  We care about you and worry about your predicament.  I don't know what I would do in your situation.  Seems like you are handling it as good as any of us could.  I pray this ends quickly for you - it's been a long time! 

driver100

GG, Sorry to hear about the problems and China and all......it is hard enough breaking up when the other party is still around. This too shall pass, but, it is a lot more complicated than it should be.

About the Mustang....love that car and it would be a nice fun car to have. I suppose the CTS will be your daily rider and the Stang is just for fun. What is the plan for it in the winter? I doubt if you would get too far in the snow unless you got snow tires!

graphicguy

driver100 said:

GG, Sorry to hear about the problems and China and all......it is hard enough breaking up when the other party is still around. This too shall pass, but, it is a lot more complicated than it should be.

About the Mustang....love that car and it would be a nice fun car to have. I suppose the CTS will be your daily rider and the Stang is just for fun. What is the plan for it in the winter? I doubt if you would get too far in the snow unless you got snow tires!

Thanks, guys! It is what it is. I'm past the emotional collateral. I just want to get this over with.

CTS would be my daily driver. Mustang Cobra would be the car for sunny days and top down.

See...I've already thought this through....LOL!

stickguy

GG, pack all her stuff into the accord, and drive it over and park it at the aunts house. At least it will be out of your hair!

graphicguy

stickguy said:

GG, pack all her stuff into the accord, and drive it over and park it at the aunts house. At least it will be out of your hair!

Stick...actually, not a half bad idea! Thanks!

imidazol97

graphicguy said:

Seller thinks the tires are fine. Dry rot is obvious to me, and not something I want on a car that's likely to be driven a bit aggressively.

What was the DOT date on the tires on the sidewall? My Michelins on the Cobalt are from 4712 and 0513. The edges of the tread blocks show surface cracking. But they aren't dry rotting. Michelin high mileage tires do this. On the other hand, the tires on the GT are probably stickier and not meant for 70K or 80K. If they're close to 5 years and are driven irregularly, the rubber may be deteriorating.

Have you priced tires out on TireRack?

thebean

@graphicguy & @Michaell - I hope things work out well for both of you.  I've never been in either of your situations, so I don't know how it is.  But, I feel bad for both of you.  But, I would bet both of you come out of this better and stronger.  Keep updating us, as it feels to me like all of us here are family.  

bwia

graphicguy said:

driver100 said:

GG, Sorry to hear about the problems and China and all......it is hard enough breaking up when the other party is still around. This too shall pass, but, it is a lot more complicated than it should be.

About the Mustang....love that car and it would be a nice fun car to have. I suppose the CTS will be your daily rider and the Stang is just for fun. What is the plan for it in the winter? I doubt if you would get too far in the snow unless you got snow tires!

Thanks, guys! It is what it is. I'm past the emotional collateral. I just want to get this over with.

CTS would be my daily driver. Mustang Cobra would be the car for sunny days and top down.

See...I've already thought this through....LOL!

GG, I feel your pain but this too shall pass.

Don't mean to preach but if there are no children involved but perhaps it's time to bail -- sell the house, furniture, and car -- and move on.

As with anything that is free, consider this advice for what it's worth..

Michaell

thebean said:

@graphicguy & @Michaell - I hope things work out well for both of you.  I've never been in either of your situations, so I don't know how it is.  But, I feel bad for both of you.  But, I would bet both of you come out of this better and stronger.  Keep updating us, as it feels to me like all of us here are family.  

Thanks for the positive thoughts. Certainly can't hurt.

bwia

Michaell said:

@graphicguy - no worries, dump all you want. Good that things are moving forward, albeit at a snails pace.

I suppose I ought to update you guys as well on the job loss / job search.

It's been almost 8 weeks since I got my layoff notice. I've been going through the outplacement program and have polished up my resume and LinkedIn profile. Have taken lots of webinars - negotiation strategy, interviewing, etc. There is a networking event every Wednesday morning that I've been attending - meeting new people. I've submitted a couple dozen applications .. not much response yet, but I did land one interview last week. First external interview I've had in 20+ years (!). Went reasonably well, but stumbled on a couple of questions. Good learning experience.

One things my coach is suggesting is that I build up my network ... and that's where you fine folks come in. The idea is that you may know someone who knows someone who is looking for an experienced person to join their team.

I'd love to connect with you on LinkedIn to begin that process. My profile can be found here:

www.linkedin.com/in/pmichaellogue

And, should you want to reach out to me via email, I can always be reached at my Edmunds email address:

michaell(at)Edmunds(dot)com

Michael - I looked at your profile on linkedin and I have three observations:
-- ditch that profile picture
-- try to be more selective, there is too much information in the resume
-- show some evidence of continuing education. Technology has changed since you earned your baccalaureate degree. Taking an online course or two would be a step in the right direction.

graphicguy

imidazol97 said:

graphicguy said:

Seller thinks the tires are fine. Dry rot is obvious to me, and not something I want on a car that's likely to be driven a bit aggressively.

What was the DOT date on the tires on the sidewall? My Michelins on the Cobalt are from 4712 and 0513. The edges of the tread blocks show surface cracking. But they aren't dry rotting. Michelin high mileage tires do this. On the other hand, the tires on the GT are probably stickier and not meant for 70K or 80K. If they're close to 5 years and are driven irregularly, the rubber may be deteriorating.

Have you priced tires out on TireRack?

imid....you know, that is a good idea, but I didn't look. I'm thinking that even though there's good tread on them, they're "old" tires.

Cracking on the sidewall is evident without looking too hard.

Owner thought the tires were fine. I wasn't going to argue the point, but I disagreed.

I haven't looked at TireRack. I was doing "top of my head" estimate....$1,000 for new tires (W or Y) once you get mounted, balancing, etc included.

stickguy

It's different getting riffed in your 50s than when younger. You get into the gray area of too early to retire, but not all that enthused about (and sometimes, able to find) a replacement "rat race" job. If I had to go through that process again, I would really think about some alternative way to make money (and a cheaper lifestyle). Really just need to make it 2 more years, until I am done with kids in college, to have the option!

qbrozen

andres3 said:

Yes, but the big difference is murder isn't a totally arbitrary rule of law that only began 10 years ago. Murder is considered wrong and unethical in addition to a law that hasn't changed in centuries. When cars of 10 or 20, or 30 years ago are treated differently for no reason other than being "grandfathered" it creates a general feeling of ridiculousness.

Sort of like 55 MPH speed limits.

So because you don't personally agree with a law or rule, you think it can be ignored? Good luck with that.

stever

@graphicguy, call him up and offer to split the difference. If he hems and haws, tell him dumping the car on you will make you happy but more importantly, will make his wife happy.

Use the savings to partially pay for some tires and if it doesn't work out, dump it in a few months. The new shoes will be the selling point.

driver100

stickguy said:

It's different getting riffed in your 50s than when younger. You get into the gray area of too early to retire, but not all that enthused about (and sometimes, able to find) a replacement "rat race" job. If I had to go through that process again, I would really think about some alternative way to make money (and a cheaper lifestyle). Really just need to make it 2 more years, until I am done with kids in college, to have the option!

Agree 100%. Really hard to get back into the rat race in your 50s. If you are in a technological field, things change so fast you are almost a dinosaur. If you are in other fields they prefer young people.

Occasionally, there is a company that wants someone who is more mature, and can bring that to the table...but rare. If you can make a living working for yourself, or can get by on a minimal amount, that is an option well worth considering. Then there is being a Walmart greeter............

graphicguy

stever said:

@graphicguy, call him up and offer to split the difference. If he hems and haws, tell him dumping the car on you will make you happy but more importantly, will make his wife happy.

Use the savings to partially pay for some tires and if it doesn't work out, dump it in a few months. The new shoes will be the selling point.

Stever...not a bad idea. I think (don't know) the Cobra is done depreciating. It's 18 years old. It's in really good shape (excepting tires). It has a hand built motor. It's a specialty model that, as best I can tell, is desirable. Cobras have a long and storied history. As they say, when the top goes down, the price goes up.

So, lots to like here. But, I'm trying to be relatively objective about it, but I'm really liking it right now. I'm going to hold off until the end of the week and see if he might just give me a call. We'll see if he's as motivated to sell as I'm feeling motivated to buy.

stever

Good points - on the other hand, nothing depreciates faster than our ability to enjoy what we have.

driver100

stever said:

Good points - on the other hand, nothing depreciates faster than our ability to enjoy what we have.

Beautifully said.......and I will bet there will be a lot of unknown costs involved, and that can take the fun out of things quickly.
I once bought a little sail boat (just a Laser), had to buy a trailer, a license for the trailer, then insurance, then storage.......
For the 4 times a year I used it I could have rented one at the lake for a lot less money and hassle.
Can rent a brand new Mustang for a few weekends a year for the cost of the insurance, or the interest on $10k.

henryn

graphicguy said:

stever said:

@graphicguy, call him up and offer to split the difference. If he hems and haws, tell him dumping the car on you will make you happy but more importantly, will make his wife happy.

Use the savings to partially pay for some tires and if it doesn't work out, dump it in a few months. The new shoes will be the selling point.

Stever...not a bad idea. I think (don't know) the Cobra is done depreciating. It's 18 years old. It's in really good shape (excepting tires). It has a hand built motor. It's a specialty model that, as best I can tell, is desirable. Cobras have a long and storied history. As they say, when the top goes down, the price goes up.

So, lots to like here. But, I'm trying to be relatively objective about it, but I'm really liking it right now. I'm going to hold off until the end of the week and see if he might just give me a call. We'll see if he's as motivated to sell as I'm feeling motivated to buy.

Here's my take on this, for what it's worth. You like this car, it's pretty, it's fast, it's fun. There aren't a lot of cars like this out there, you are not likely to find another one. Paying $1,500 more than you wanted to pay is not going to break the bank.

On the negative side: The seller is overpriced. There are other cars out there that qualify as "pretty and fast and fun", just not quite like this one. But if you keep looking, you will find something.

So, you have to ask yourself this: Would you rather be driving around in this convertible, or searching for a different fun car? For some people, the shopping, the looking, is at least half of the fun. If that's you, then keep looking. Otherwise, buy the car and enjoy the heck out of it!

jmonroe

GG said:

Didn't mean to dump on you guys.
____________________________________________________________________________

Don't think of it as dumping. Think of it as therapy.

We have a very unique group of guys in here and you've been here longer than most so I'm sure you know that. Feel free to talk whenever you have the need.

Good luck.

jmonroe

oldfarmer50

graphicguy said:

nyccarguy said:

@graphicguy - that's a nice Mustang for sure.  The guy will come around eventually.  

What's going on with your wife?  Is she still in China?

Bradd...we'll see about the Cobra. At this juncture, it's not even about the money. As the pros here have always said, owners value the cars they're trying to sell more than the guy who's trying to buy. True in this case. If the tires were right, I probably would have written the guy a check.

Seller has his number in mind, that he seemed to come down. I've got my number, which I think is fair. It's certainly not a low ball.

As Old Farmer said, I think his wife will eventually either tell him to sell it to me, or tell him to hold onto it. That kind of car, he's going to have every pubescent teen trying to jump into the driver's seat and try to scrape Washingtons together to buy it.

As I told him, I don't have to ask permission, get financing, etc. I'd be bringing a cashier's check.

Wife....well, yes she's still in China. Best I can tell, she's not coming back, at least not in the foreseeable future. That makes things move at a snail's pace because she has assets here (like her Accord) that I can't do anything with and she can't/won't make arrangements to dispose of/find a new home for. And, getting signatures when it's hard to prove that her signature is indeed her signature (which I'm certain it is) is a gargantuan effort in and of itself.

She has a brother here, but he lives in CA. He doesn't want to have any part of this fiasco, so he won't act on her behalf. She has an aunt who lives close, so she is acting as her representative. She's elderly and really shouldn't be burdened with this. She seems to be so paralyzed when confronted with making any decisions for her niece.

But, there are all sort of repercussions if this continues to linger, and something happens to her, or to me. The aunt now has power of attorney. So, I'm hopeful we can accelerate this. It's like herding cats to get this thing to move along.

Didn't mean to dump on you guys.

GG you are a MUCH better negotiator than I. A 40k mile 18 yo car babied by a mature owner would give me such hot pants that I'd probably fold and pay asking price.

As to dumping on us about your wife, don't worry we have broad shoulders. There's a piece to the puzzle missing on her behavior. To act as she has is beyond strange. At least she has a representative stateside for you to deal with.

Maybe it's time for you to see a lawyer.

oldfarmer50

Michaell said:

@graphicguy - no worries, dump all you want. Good that things are moving forward, albeit at a snails pace.

I suppose I ought to update you guys as well on the job loss / job search.

It's been almost 8 weeks since I got my layoff notice. I've been going through the outplacement program and have polished up my resume and LinkedIn profile. Have taken lots of webinars - negotiation strategy, interviewing, etc. There is a networking event every Wednesday morning that I've been attending - meeting new people. I've submitted a couple dozen applications .. not much response yet, but I did land one interview last week. First external interview I've had in 20+ years (!). Went reasonably well, but stumbled on a couple of questions. Good learning experience.

One things my coach is suggesting is that I build up my network ... and that's where you fine folks come in. The idea is that you may know someone who knows someone who is looking for an experienced person to join their team.

I'd love to connect with you on LinkedIn to begin that process. My profile can be found here:

www.linkedin.com/in/pmichaellogue

And, should you want to reach out to me via email, I can always be reached at my Edmunds email address:

michaell(at)Edmunds(dot)com

I feel for you Mitchaell. For me being out of work was very traumatic. I'd gladly network with you if I had any connections but unfortunately I don't. Thankfully I'll be retired in a year and won't have to worry about interviews or job searches.

The last job I interviewed for I didn't really need so I took a very laid back attitude. When they asked me "why do you want to work with us?" I flippantly answered "I'm not sure I do yet". I must have come across as confident because I was offered the job on the spot. Go figure.

Sometimes I think getting a job comes down to dumb luck.

oldfarmer50

L

driver100 said:

stickguy said:

It's different getting riffed in your 50s than when younger. You get into the gray area of too early to retire, but not all that enthused about (and sometimes, able to find) a replacement "rat race" job. If I had to go through that process again, I would really think about some alternative way to make money (and a cheaper lifestyle). Really just need to make it 2 more years, until I am done with kids in college, to have the option!

Agree 100%. Really hard to get back into the rat race in your 50s. If you are in a technological field, things change so fast you are almost a dinosaur. If you are in other fields they prefer young people.

Occasionally, there is a company that wants someone who is more mature, and can bring that to the table...but rare. If you can make a living working for yourself, or can get by on a minimal amount, that is an option well worth considering. Then there is being a Walmart greeter............

Good point. Sometimes it's easier going off on your own that butting you head against corporate attitudes. There's horrible age discrimination out there particularly in tech. Combine that with the abuse of H1b visas and you can find it almost impossible to get hired.

My last corporate gig was with a company that hired only 20 something's and fired them as they approached 40. It was strictly a cost saving move but at the time it was like my whole world had collapsed. Looking back I wonder how I had the courage to start a business in a totally unrelated field with almost no capital. Sometimes it was a struggle financially but I sleep better.

Michaell

oldfarmer50 said:

Michaell said:

@graphicguy - no worries, dump all you want. Good that things are moving forward, albeit at a snails pace.

I suppose I ought to update you guys as well on the job loss / job search.

It's been almost 8 weeks since I got my layoff notice. I've been going through the outplacement program and have polished up my resume and LinkedIn profile. Have taken lots of webinars - negotiation strategy, interviewing, etc. There is a networking event every Wednesday morning that I've been attending - meeting new people. I've submitted a couple dozen applications .. not much response yet, but I did land one interview last week. First external interview I've had in 20+ years (!). Went reasonably well, but stumbled on a couple of questions. Good learning experience.

One things my coach is suggesting is that I build up my network ... and that's where you fine folks come in. The idea is that you may know someone who knows someone who is looking for an experienced person to join their team.

I'd love to connect with you on LinkedIn to begin that process. My profile can be found here:

www.linkedin.com/in/pmichaellogue

And, should you want to reach out to me via email, I can always be reached at my Edmunds email address:

michaell(at)Edmunds(dot)com

I feel for you Mitchaell. For me being out of work was very traumatic. I'd gladly network with you if I had any connections but unfortunately I don't. Thankfully I'll be retired in a year and won't have to worry about interviews or job searches.

The last job I interviewed for I didn't really need so I took a very laid back attitude. When they asked me "why do you want to work with us?" I flippantly answered "I'm not sure I do yet". I must have come across as confident because I was offered the job on the spot. Go figure.

Sometimes I think getting a job comes down to dumb luck.

@oldfarmer50 - you hit the nail on the head. My emotions have been all over the place. Some days are good, others aren't.

I guess I've been really lucky as I haven't had to do much job hunting in my life.

Got my first job out of college through contacts my dad had made. Lucked into the job that brought be to Colorado, and the only bit of stress I've had since then was when I was laid off from my instructor position - only took a couple of weeks for me to move laterally into a support role with the same organization. Was nominated to the Operations job by my then support manager.

So - a lot of this is new to me, even though I've been out of college over 30 years. Working from home the last 8+ years hasn't helped me build a network of contacts, either. But, I've got lots of support through the outplacement organization and close friends - of which I count everyone here. I'm sure there is a job out there, somewhere ... eventually.

andres3

imidazol97 said:

andres3 said:

Of course, people should complain about the bailouts until GM at least pays back taxpayers for the next to worthless GM stock that lost taxpayers billions upon billions of dollars. Even then, people should complain.

Ridiculous. Old news. LOL.

Let's talk about the VW/Audi intentional cheating scandal. How long did VW/Audi drag out the admission?
Gotta love those dealers still soldiering on. Mitsubishi just admitted to intentionally cheating on mileage or pollution standards as well.

I consider lying about fuel economy to be far worse. Mitsubishi and the others that have done so should be ashamed. That is lying directly to your customer, and causing them greater direct expense for using the product. What VW/Audi did is pretty much trick the EPA and their silly smog tests. Didn't cost the consumer a dime, and furthermore, is profiting them so far with goodwill cards.

Now, when the excrement finally hits the fan and the cars have to be "fixed" or otherwise "ruined" then we'll see what happens. $5K seems fair to me. I'll probably use the Wagon as a commuter for the 2 years I'm allowed to stall, then trade it in for book plus $5K. So if I have the Wagon as my commuter and daily driver, that opens me up to "toy" cars!

andres3

Michaell said:

oldfarmer50 said:

Michaell said:

@graphicguy - no worries, dump all you want. Good that things are moving forward, albeit at a snails pace.

I suppose I ought to update you guys as well on the job loss / job search.

It's been almost 8 weeks since I got my layoff notice. I've been going through the outplacement program and have polished up my resume and LinkedIn profile. Have taken lots of webinars - negotiation strategy, interviewing, etc. There is a networking event every Wednesday morning that I've been attending - meeting new people. I've submitted a couple dozen applications .. not much response yet, but I did land one interview last week. First external interview I've had in 20+ years (!). Went reasonably well, but stumbled on a couple of questions. Good learning experience.

One things my coach is suggesting is that I build up my network ... and that's where you fine folks come in. The idea is that you may know someone who knows someone who is looking for an experienced person to join their team.

I'd love to connect with you on LinkedIn to begin that process. My profile can be found here:

www.linkedin.com/in/pmichaellogue

And, should you want to reach out to me via email, I can always be reached at my Edmunds email address:

michaell(at)Edmunds(dot)com

I feel for you Mitchaell. For me being out of work was very traumatic. I'd gladly network with you if I had any connections but unfortunately I don't. Thankfully I'll be retired in a year and won't have to worry about interviews or job searches.

The last job I interviewed for I didn't really need so I took a very laid back attitude. When they asked me "why do you want to work with us?" I flippantly answered "I'm not sure I do yet". I must have come across as confident because I was offered the job on the spot. Go figure.

Sometimes I think getting a job comes down to dumb luck.

@oldfarmer50 - you hit the nail on the head. My emotions have been all over the place. Some days are good, others aren't.

I guess I've been really lucky as I haven't had to do much job hunting in my life.

Got my first job out of college through contacts my dad had made. Lucked into the job that brought be to Colorado, and the only bit of stress I've had since then was when I was laid off from my instructor position - only took a couple of weeks for me to move laterally into a support role with the same organization. Was nominated to the Operations job by my then support manager.

So - a lot of this is new to me, even though I've been out of college over 30 years. Working from home the last 8+ years hasn't helped me build a network of contacts, either. But, I've got lots of support through the outplacement organization and close friends - of which I count everyone here. I'm sure there is a job out there, somewhere ... eventually.

Looking for a job when you need one sucks. And being rejected or passed-over for someone else is even worse when you wanted that job you interviewed for. Another frustration, interviewing for a position they decide they don't want to fill after all.

fezo

gg - " But, I'm trying to be relatively objective about it, but I'm really liking it right now."

There is a time and place for objectivity. I suspect this isn't it.

On work. Having been out of the work force for four and a half years I'm not in a hurry to return and anything I do will be something for fun. I may well end up in a summer job at a miniature golf course, working the booth and keeping the place clean. Nice, very family friendly place I've known most of my life. Might also be looking for some places to play in institutions - like nursing homes. The good part there is they have to hire entertainment by law, they don't balk at your price and pay on the spot. The down side is a 1099...

andres3

graphicguy said:

fezo said:

My hockey fun is over, but the Devils had a nice run with three more Stanley Cups than I ever expected them to get when they first came here from Colorado.

Hockey on TV is OK Hockey live is insanely good.

Gg - if you replace those dry rotted tires it won't be bone stock anymore.....

fezo...excellent point about the tires.

Now, we wait, to see if he calls me back first, or I call him back first, or we don't call each other at all.

There' the practical GG that says "you don't need a Cobra, it's an indulgence that makes no sense". Then, there's the impractical GG that keeps saying "...you've had a tough year. You deserve it. Buy it and drive it like you stole it, every chance you get."

None of us here like leaving money on the table when buying a vehicle. I think $10K, while not unreasonable, becomes $11K with new shoes. And, that is on the high side, regardless of how good condition the car is. $8,500 + $1K for tires puts it in the reasonable category.

Seller thinks the tires are fine. Dry rot is obvious to me, and not something I want on a car that's likely to be driven a bit aggressively.

That's where we're at.

Interesting negotiation, I sent a quasi offer to my audi salesman on a TT-S they had. It was a real lowball quasi-offer and I didn't get a response. Either he didn't get it, is on vacation the last week, or good move on his part to not give my offer the dignity of a response.