RE: What to look out for when buying 88 80Q...?

["Bhatti, Mohammed K 001" <MOHAMMEDB@sa15wpoa.us-state.gov>]

<<<<<<<
I am going to look at a 1988 80 Quattro for
my sister this weekend.  My question is...is
there anything special about this year or this
model to be on the lookout for.  Sounds like
it might need brakes soon.  Apparently it is
Lago Blue or something like that, has 81K miles,
Quattro, cloth seats, ski bag, and radio.
>>>>>>>
I have the exact year and model and when I bought mine it had 88K miles.
For personal experience I would:
1. pull codes and see what you get
2. check for wierd idle since I've noticed a lot 80/90 owners are
running into idle problems - I'm still trying to figure out mine.
3. check a/c.  Mine had the cable that controls the temerature flap
broken so I only got hot         air.  Make sure it works, drive with it
full blast for about 5-10 minutes until the temp gauge moves up half way
and the rad fan comes on and make sure the idle is stable (see 2).  Make
sure the blower motor works in all 4 stages, if not replacement motor
and resistor could cost ~$200 from a dealer, cheaper from a junk yard.
4. Make sure you get the radio code
5. Check CV joints for tears (mines got a tiny tear on front left)

The above are based on my personal experiences.  I have not found any
other major problems on my car and I've owned it for about 8 months.  It
does'nt have good low end torque but once you hit >3000rpm, thats when
it pulls.  I would agree with the general consensus on the list that the
I5 is a very strong engine that loves to rev hard.  Overall, I have been
very pleased with my car especially with it's handling and stability at
high speeds.

<<<<<<<<<
The person is asking $5700, and states
the kelley blue book in the low $6K range.
Sound decent, if everything is ok?  Pls
advise. TIA
>>>>>>>>>>
I bought mine for $3300 after I traded in my Topaz for $1700 (which was
worth around $900).  I think you should be able to get the price down to
under $5K.

mohammed bhatti
mclean, va
88 80q