Private Seller Car Vs. DMC Franchise Car

[LordFly]

I'm looking to get a D this spring and I was wondering if a few people could weigh in on private seller vs. franchise. I've seen a lot of private listings in the $22K - $24K range, where as the franchise cars seem to START at $30K. I inquired about #6989 and was quoted the following prices:

AS-IS $39,995
Safety Checked $49,995
DMC Certified $64,995

I'm not looking for something that is in absolutely MINT condition, but I want it to be in pretty good condition. But $65K is double my budget. I have no issues at all doing all work on the car myself, so the only cost would be parts. I would imagine in my case, on a $30K budget, I would be best off to get a private car and use the remaining $6K - $8K on needed parts. I could also spread the parts costs out over time, rather than all up front. Thoughts?

[cybercusp]

Did they give a breakdown as to what you're getting for the additional costs?

[thirdmanj]

For your money, if you're considering buying from a vendor, call Josh at DPI. www.deloreanindustries.com

[dmc4087]

What do they do in a ten thousand dollar safety check??

Go private.

[LordFly]

What do they do in a ten thousand dollar safety check??

Go private.

That was my thought exactly. Replacing complete rolling chassis?

[Michael]

What do they do in a ten thousand dollar safety check??

Go private.

I wouldn't mind hearing the answer to that one myself.

[LordFly]

For your money, if you're considering buying from a vendor, call Josh at DPI. www.deloreanindustries.com

DPI isn't showing anything for sale. Except a complete car build for $67K.

[David T]

There are a lot of advantages buying from DMC*. They can help finance it, and you would expect to be buying it in decent condition. At least you figure you will know exactly what the condition is. There may even be some kind of warrranty. That is partly what the premium price is for. Buying from a private seller you can save money but expect the sale to all cash and it is entirely up to the buyer (you) to figure out just what the condition of the car is. Be aware you can pay $30K for a car and it is not a $30K car! If you are planning on buying a car and can do your own work you should be able to find a very nice one for $20K-25K. DMC* is not the only "game in town". If you are willing to pay shipping you can spread out your geographic area and have a much larger pool to pick from. Call PJ Grady and see what he can do. If you are not in a rush, keep looking till the right one comes along. Go to the local club events and see if anyone is selling their car.
David Teitelbaum

[LordFly]

Did they give a breakdown as to what you're getting for the additional costs?

No break down. They just briefly explained the 3 different categories. They were as you would expect. Although, in my opinion, not worth the prices listed.

[cybercusp]

See if you can get a specific breakdown as to specifically what service is provided at each price point. I bought from a vendor and the pricing was simply a sticker price, including safety inspections, etc, and we negotiated from there.