new member looking to buy first spider

[little851]

HI everyone.
My name is Chris. I'm in central VA.
I am a recovering Ducati owner, and am looking to have a toy for me AND my wife.
Any advice for a new owner would be appriciated.

[RRoller123]

Welcome! There is a wealth of info here, and you can check out a buyer's guide at mirafiore.com. RUST is the biggest issue when buying these old cars. Finding a rust-limited one is more than half the battle, (for most of us who are not so good or patient with a welding torch).

When you are ready, here is an instruction on how to post pictures to the forum:

http://www.fiatspider.com/f08/viewtopic.php?f=4&t=21014

Pete

[2ndwind]

Welcome Chris.
I second Pete's statements about rust. Ideally you can find a car someone has taken care of over time for which you will have to pay a little more. My research suggested a 1972 or 1982 car. I found a rust-free 1982 for $3500 which I am very happy with now that I've spent an additional $6500 over the past 3 yrs, making it safe and reliable.

[courtenay]

Yes, welcome Chris. It really doesn't hurt to spend a little more at the front end to get a good car. I paid $10,000 for a rust free '81 Fi with just under 40,000 miles and have spent a couple of hundred bucks over he past 3 years. The key, of course is finding something rust free. Southwest cars are usually your best source.

[Weelan]

I read this when I was looking at buying mine.

http://www.hemmings.com/hsx/stories/200 ... uide1.html

[RRoller123]

It seems like we all end up at about 10 grand, regardless of where we start.... so start with a good one if you can.

[jeb358]

I found a '78 Spider with virtually no rust for $2500. Take your time, do your homework and find one without much rust.
They are out there. Good luck on your search and welcome.

[little851]

Thanks everyone. Has anyone dealt with Ken from Richmond VA at sports car workshops? He and the shop seem to be the real deal...