Hey Guys, I'm considering purchasing a 66 Gran Sport (see link below) for considerably less than the 19,900 asking price. It is obviously a very nice care but I am hestitant to buy it because it is NOT a numbers matching car. The engine is a 401 but it is not the original engine nor is it a '66 401 (the casting number indicates it's a '61 401). What are your thoughts, your expertise on a non-matching numbers car like this one? Buy it? Pass? I'm looking for any advice so I can sleep at night :eek2: Thanks, Pete http://www.mershons.com/view_photo.asp?ID=5525&image=Exterior
According to what I have been seeing the pre '70 GS cars bring on Ebay over the last couple of years, $19,900 is pushing it for a non-frame off GS car. I don't know what deal they have given you. Maybe it is considerably lower. Numbers matching means much to some and very little to others. Personally, GS Buicks being in the price range their in, I don't pay much attention to matching numbers. Yes, if it was a GSX or especially a Stage 1 car, I would pay more attention because they are the highest Buicks out there right now. It is a matter of personal opinion. Just remember that $20 grand doesn't go that far when trying to build a show car. I have learned the hard way that buying one already finished is the best bet. It is a very good looking car. Good luck with the purchase.
Thanks for the reply. Your point is well taken about the difference between a GSX or Stage I and this car. I think I've worked a deal that is much less than the very high asking price but I'm still trying to make a rational decision about purchasing this car. Any other thoughts?
If it is a '61 401, does it have a dynaflow trans? I didnt think the 66 trans would work with a 61 engine? The car looks nice, is it as nice in person?
Are you buying it for its possible future value, or because you like the car? It seems like an pretty nice car for the price you're talking about. If you really like the car you'll never lose. If you do buy it, go find a 66 401 block, and make it as right as possible if thats what you want. Mark
Where is it from? Have you asked them where the car is from? If it is from Parkersburg, WV. or Marietta OH.(there is one identical to it, that has been for sale locally). If it is the same car, I can give you a ton of info on it. I have followed this particular car for at least 15 years. John
It totally depends on what kind of person you are. A bone stock, day it rolled off the line guy. Or maybe more of a hot rodder. Personally, I'm glad my car isn't numbers matching. That way I can do what ever I want with it.
Trevor, I'm kind of 'bone-stock' guy. I like the originality of our old cars, not necessarily for future value but because I like original cars. However, I really like this cars color combo, its detailing, etc. So, I'm not sure what to do. I'm pretty sure this car was originally from North Carolina but it has been an Ohio car for quite some time. So, if you have some information or history about the car, please share it with me. Thanks, Pete
66 If it is a Carolina car, then it's not the one I know of. The one i know of was purchased new in Parkersburg, owned by the original lady until about 1987. A very good friend of mine bought it then, and he sold it(unbeknownst to me) in about 1995. Another gentleman here locally owned it and had it for sale last fall, but I lost track of it. John
John, That may be the car because its been in Ohio for a while. I think Mershon's sold it several years ago and bought it back recently. Could it be the same car? If so, do you know anything about the restoration or the previous owner(s)? Thanks.
iv always thought of a numbers matching car is like Rice Crispys, compared to Crispy rice. both taste the same, one is priced a lot highter. the way i figure is if you like the car go for it. if you want someone else to like the car, and youre willing to pay more, look for a numbers matching. :TU: pete
