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1994-2002 [Subscribe to Daily Digest] |
The 1997 has a somewhat improved front suspension than the 1994 model, and a few other improvements, but here is what I have experienced with my 1994 SE, so you can see what the future may hold, add some cost for the convertible top which is prone to its own troubles. Real improvements came in 1998 with a hydraulic clutch. The cable clutch just plain sucks and can/will leave you in need of a tow at some point with little or no warning.
My 94 SE costs me around $125.00 a month in repairs/maintenance, not including gas, tag fees or insurance. This is from an old post of mine...
"...old 1994 900 SE Imola Red 5 spd. coupe. Bought it used in 9/97 with 2,950 miles on it, good deal at $13,900. It was a GM exec car and used little for the first 3 years. My costs include oil changes, tire, wipers, brakes, all repairs, everything but gas. 75% of work is DIY, major stuff goes to dealer. As you see, cost goes up as mileage/age increases. I now have 140k on it and still on the original clutch. Keep in mind the 1994 model was supposed to be the worst of the lot.
1997 (6k) $45.00
1998 (28k) $60.00
1999 (49k) $720.00 (warranty gone)
2000 (71k) $580.00
2001 (91k) $820.00
2002 (114k) $2,785.00
2003 (130k) $1,375.00
2004 (143k) $1,570.00 (and the year aint over)
You can chart this out and see where the cars start to cost more and where you get into the land of diminishing returns. The sharp bump up in 2002 is due to part to my decision to spruce up the car to take a run at 200k, the only big ticket item I see on the horizon is the clutch.
When you consider how much money you save with an older car, in insurance (mine is 250.00 a year), with taxes (mine fell off the registry this year, no taxes next year), and the fact that door dings no longer make you cringe you probably save 700.00-1,000.00 a year over an 04 model just on property taxes and insurance costs ALONE. So there are advantages folks do not consider.
I also have a pristine 00 9-3 SE I bought as a replacement in waiting 9 months ago for 13,900. I have already put 13k on it with only oil changes and wipers as expenses, so it looks like I am going down the same road.
posted by 24.236.8...
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