Should I convert to manual for higher resale

[Huw Powell]

> I have been trying to sell this '86 GT Coupe now for some time.  I have the
> thing near immaculate, but am not getting any serious bites.  I know part
> of the problem is that it is an automatic.  I have been asking $2K.

I think you may be asking more than the car is worth.  Have you checked
the book values for it?  I paid $2300 for my '82 coupe, in great shape,
at 140,000 miles... nine years ago.  These days I think changing its oil
doubles its book value...

> My question is:
>
> Would it be worth my time to convert this thing to a standard transmision
> since I have the complete drivetrain from an '89 model 80??

That's an awful lot of work - doesn't strike me that you could really
recoup your time/money investment there.

> On that note, I also have the drivetrain from an '87 4kq, but I think that
> undertaking would require floorpan modification, etc. right?

Yes, you'd have to swap the floorpan as well as the drivetrain - but
that would be much more interesting!  Of course you would also need to
drop in a 20v turbo engine...

> I wouldn't be asking these questions if this weren't such a nice looking
> car.  Keep in mind here, due to my present work situation I have more time
> than money.  So if I were able to get like $3k for the car as a manual it
> might be worth it.

I could see that happening, with the absolutely right buyer - but they
might be looking for a non-customized car, too.

I think you should get a nice 4kq floorpan and build a nice sleeper
monster with all that spare time!

--
Huw Powell

http://www.humanspeakers.com/

http://www.humanthoughts.org/