The very low mileage cars are fetching really good prices. Finding a very
fresh low mileage car is almost impossible. Storage is key, and cars that
have been stored for a really long time show the effects if not stored
properly. Wires chewed by pests, rubber rotted off, car covers that moved
with the wind cause wear on the paint. Time makes all brake systems
useless, and needing full restoration if not set up properly at first. Even
restored cars show age with time because they are not driven. Just because
you have not driven your car for 3000 miles does not mean the oil is still
good. Depending on the climate, the engine could be condensation internally
for those many months, leaving a quantity of water in the oil. Not a lot,
but then a Honda 600 doesn't have a lot of oil in it either. Fresh fluids
annually is a must, all fluids.
But back to the 10K car, this is why it has to be looked at. The worn area
of the seat happens at that point because the foam rubber under the seat
covers has shrunk leaving the material loose and getting in and out several
times will cause it to wear right there. Some one who is looking and really
not caring (about the car) could cause all kinds of problems. We all know,
many people still look at these cars as transportation. But recent sales of
condition 3 and better are getting into the 5K to 7K range, 10K is not that
much higher. It relates to the cost of restoration, and well restored cars
are going to cost more than 10K to restore. If you don't believe me, ask
your local body shop for their hourly rate and then total the time you spent
on your car. After all, time is money, we just enjoy doing it so it hardly
ever gets thrown into the mix. But when it comes time to sell, all your
costs are figured in, and I know your not going to let anyone forget the new
tires, brake work, upholstery redone or fresh paint.
Bill