Portland Oregon....

[BUMP]

Hello.... Just registered but I've been sifting through the site for a couple weeks. I don't own a spider but I'm contemplating the idea of owning one.
I've read the buyer's guides (Hemmings and Mirafiori) and now feel somewhat overwhelmed.
Initial thoughts on what I think I want:
Post 1980 for a 2000 spider with EFI. EFI seems simpler and less complicated?
No Rust:.. but finding one in the Pacific Northwest without rust could be tough? I've read a few posts about rust being a deal breaker for cross member behind the oil pan and the front shock mounts.
I don't want a complete rebuild/restore project. I have minimal car mechanic experience but I've owned a lot of motorized toys.
Any insight on what to look for and what to stay away from would be greatly appreciated.

To open pandoras box and dive in? that is the question.
Thanks
Mark

[azruss]

The late model carb cars had lots of weird plumbing associated with the carb in order to meet emissions. When I transplanted a 79 carbed motor, my fiat guru told me to deep 6 the carb and put on a re-jetted earlier carb, which i did and it worked great. At that point, i lived in Eugene and did not require an emissions test. The 2L FI cars are great if you can find one that is running well. If you still want a carbed car, look for a 71 to 75. I currently have an 80 FI car and it's very reliable.

[Nanonevol]

I would say that carbs and fuel injection are equally complicated, it just depends on what you want to work on- an older "analog" type car that is more mechanically operated or a more modern "electronic" system. Personally, i'm fascinated with carbs but then you can't argue with the performance of EFI.

[RRoller123]

The FI system is pretty easy once it gets sorted, but there are a lot of bits and they are not inexpensive. But there are distinct advantages to the FI over the carb, at altitude, temperature, cold start, etc. Mine is very reliable so far, but it took quite awhile to figure it out and get comfortable with it. Fortunately there are excellent FI manuals for this system available free online.

[Sweetvinny66]

Do it!!! So far my 78 1800 with a 32/36 webber had been pretty easy to handle. All my dad tells me is that this is one of the more sophisticated and simple cars to work on in his experience with automobiles. They have thier querks but in the end they are sweet rides.