89 2ctqa buying advice

[Chris Semple]

> To: Matt Ammann; Quattro List
> Subject: Re: 89 2ctqa buying advice

> > 1. cracked windshield. - ~$500 to fix
>
> That's a bit low, but in the neighborhood.

I dunno, he's got a wagon, so the antennae's in the roof, not the 'shield.
Which is the major price difference between a 5k and 100/200 'shield. If I
recall, we'd get them installed for 375$ or so.

> > 2. bit of smoke at startup, uses ~1qt/800 miles
> >   figure this is turbo seals, which will require a
> >   rebuild in the not too distant future - thoughts
> >   on how much this will cost and the likeli-hood of
> >   if grenading?
>
> Maybe turbo seals, maybe valve stem seals,
> maybe a neglected car with worn rings burning
> oil.

Agreed, needs more diagnosis work, a compression or leakdown test might be
money well spent. And by that note, how about a general check over from your
local import shop?

> > 3. rear shocks are a bit worn.  I understand the
> >   replacement options are limited? Anyone have the
> >   skinny on what will fit and approximate cost?

Boge/Bilstein/Koni and assorted other cheaper makes all available, plan on
115$ each approx at wholesale.

> > 4. Trouble indicator(OK/low fuel/etc) seems broken,
> > it doesn't light up at all. Is this likely to be a
> > big problem, or just a blown fuse or the like?
>
> Sometimes this is just the ribbon connector
> going to the instrument cluster.  A good cleaning
> and spray with DeOxit or other good cleaner
> (check the archives) might take care of it.
>
> > Otherwise it is in primo shape, 155Kmiles.
>
> How are the rear brake calipers, seat heaters, brake
> pressure accumulator (bomb), steering rack (leaks?),
> timing belt service, clutch, radio/speakers, and leather?
> The condition/servicing of those things will affect the
> price.
>
> > What do you think it is worth?

I didn't catch where you're located, but as with anything "older", it's
worth what a willing buyer will pay. Older Audi's are more about condition
than book value. I've had 200tq's that were well worth 5k$, and others that
went for 500$(needed everything but the roof replaced and were best for
parts use). I lost one at auction last week to a dealer who happily paid
1600$('90 200tqa blue/blue), I can't see how he'll make any money once he
accounts for transport/prep/advertising/insurance/labour etc. But then maybe
it's the colour his wife always wanted...

> Not much, given the cracked windshield. Depending
> on the other things, I'd guess about $1K to $1.5K.
> For reference, Chris at Force5Auto.com has an '89
> 200 TQA for $3200, and an '88 5K TQA for $700.

I'll side with Kent, but err on the optimistic side. If it's really in good
shape, confirmed by someone other than a rosy-eyed prospective buyer, then
1500$ is fine, but I'd have to think that most 200tqa's will need a little
prep work. Ask any lister that's done the "maintenace by subsystem" approach
(ur-q owners come to mind here) and you'll quickly find you have a
bulletproof reliable car that's worth far less, by the book, than what
you've got into it.

All said and done though, to replace that level of performace, luxury,
safety, and panache nowadays will set you back into the mid 30K$ mark.

Hope another perspective helps!

-Cheers
Chris Semple
Concord NH
'92 S4
   '97 Audi Cab