When your car is written off and your insurer agrees your claim, the search is on for a replacement, even in a pandemic. Here is Graham Martin’s story:
“I had owned my ‘near ideal’ 928, which was a Gulf Oil logo coloured blue 1981 de-spoilered, no rubbing strips, orange wheeled car for nearly six years, and was devastated when it was deemed uneconomically repairable by the transgressor’s insurance company in November ’21.
“Having an agreed value policy meant that I had sufficient funds to search for a replacement. The hunt began. Considering I was only looking for an S2 auto, the number of potential cars was somewhat reduced. However, through our 928 network and via web searching, I did find potential cars that did suit my criteria.
“I discovered a number of dealer cars that were ambitiously priced from £20,000 to £25,000. Sadly the dealers were unable to provide much evidence concerning the real life standard of their cars, particularly cruise control, air conditioning, cam belt/water pump replacement and flex plate adjustment. None of them could confirm working ABS. These cars were often out of long-term storage and had been recently re-commissioned. Ho hum.
“Privately advertised cars were circa £13,000 to £17,000. Many turned out to be offered by self-styled ‘wheeler dealers’ wanting to re-coup their efforts and offered mixed value for money. These cars should be considered only after a thorough inspection and test-drive. I suggest a one-day insurance cover policy. Alternatively, invest in a specialist 928 inspection survey, as I did.
“The best option, in my opinion, is to buy privately from a long-term owner who has a sheaf of invoices from specialists, not generic garages. This is usually someone who can talk about his own 928 openly, warts and all. I suggest that a reasonable S or S2 with provenance could be acquired for between £12,000 and £17,000. The really original and unrestored cars are often priced at £22,000 to £28,000, if you can find one of course.
“Manuals usually command a 10% to 15% premium.
Graham Martin’s ’84 S2 retro-restored as a ’78 in Minerva Blue with new Pascha interior
“My new car is not perfect but it represents a solid base that I can improve upon. With over £6000 spent on a brand-new interior alone and a passionate previous owner, only selling due to three fast growing boys, I am delighted. Plus it’s Minerva, my favourite early colour!”
My thanks to Graham for his story.