Hey guys/gals new guy here looking at entering 2002 world and looking for some advice please...
I am a car guy and have had many toys over the years but never a 2002. couple of sprites/midgets, 914, GTI's, and a few Miatas. currently driving a tastefully modified 94 Miata.
A buddy of mine has 76 2002 he is looking to sell due to some economic concerns and he has offered it to me at what i think is a decent price.
I have been looking through the forums and have found plenty of great info here.
I went to see the car last week, and it has its plus's - and minus's...
It is a 76 Mintgrun Sunroof car. He bought it 5 years ago from Ohio. Rebuilt engine, Weber downdraft and 5 speed conversion. He replaced the front fenders with OEM, repaired some rust on the front valance and some other minor spots on the car. Partial respray from the beltline down to maintain as much original paint as possible. Interior was redone by the PO, nicely. My friend daily drove it for a few years and then parked it.
I drove it, it runs great but has a slight whine from the tranny. I dont think a big deal but it may need attention.
As for rust, i have found some. minor bleeding at the driver side shock tower, some soft spots in the lower rockers - the worst at the pass side front jack point. pedal area and floor seem solid. minor rust at the bottom corners of the windshield.
Well, he offered it to me for $3000. I am thinking it may be a good buy to drive for a while and in a few years bite the bullet and tear it down for a resto. I feel like I cant lose, But would appreciate feedback from the forums.
Thanks for any feedback! hope to join the 2002 club...