Question I found this good deal on a '59 Chrysler New Yorker. I've just graduated H.S and want it bad, but then again, I know it's a gas gulper in this economy. I could get another car easily, but at $1,000, in not TOO bad shape, I don't know how hard, or even if this is worth restoring. It's rusted, but not too bad, needs a new paint job and interior work, and also some electrical work done as well: lights, radio, maybe a.c.
I'm a car enthusiast, I like working on them, but I don't know how "rare" or valuable this deal for this car really is.
Just tell me, your opinion if you would, if this you think that this is a good deal or not, if I should get this or something with better fuel economy, and/or less work.
thanks for your time
-Australianpirate, Austin Ebert
AnswerAustin:
Expect to donate your time to this project, and hopefully recoup the cost of parts and services plus a profit.
A whole lot depends upon what body style this car is, what motor is under the hood and where you're located--Oz or the USA!
If this car is a "C" series, a wagon, 2-door hardtop (pillarless) or, better yet, a convertible, you may have something that will be worth some serious cash when completed. Furthermore, the larger the motor, the more it's worth. Even a 4-door sedan, if it sports a 413 Golden Lion motor, is worth restoring. The ultimate would be a "C" convertible.
If you're in Oz, the cost of parts shipped from the USA will be very pricey. A lot of US vendors will not want to ship to Oz, and parts are not that plentiful in Oz.
If you're in the USA, pick up a Hemmings Motor News, and have a look.
And, you're right--it is a gas hog; depending upon the motor, you'll be seeing 7-15 mpg.
--Paul
