Auto body repair & detailing: Clear Coat Problem, nissan 300zx, old paint

Question
I'm looking at purchasing a 1992 Nissan 300ZX with a clear coat finish. I live in Massachusetts and this car came from Florida. At a distance the finish looks great, however when you get close you can see where the clear coat has peeled away from the undercaot. It's especially noticeable on both bumpers. In a few other areas, the clear coat doesn't exist at all. I'm assuming this problem has to do with continued exposure to the Florida sun? Here's my dilemma: The vehicle has  a lot going for it as the body, with the exception of the problem I just mentioned, is in excellent shape. The interior and overall mechanical condition is great. However, to repair the clear coat,  I have been given estimates ranging from $300.00 to $3,000.00.  My question is can the trouble spots only be treated or does the entire care have to be done. I appreciate you taking the time to assist me.

Answer
Hello, and thank you for your question! I would say, pass the car by unless you can get it for a song. To me, it sounds like a weatherbeaten car that has been left to languish in the burning Florida sun. I think your attraction to the vehicle is the fact that it's a sports car, am I correct? If the previous owner took care of it at all, they would have had the finish repaired when trouble started, and not just let it go to the dogs. You will need to refinish the entire car. Spot or panel repairing will just fix the problem panels, leaving the old paint to eventually peel. Also, when cars peel, the factory finish tends to come off of the primer, not the clear off of the base coat. I highly suspect that the car has been previously painted, most likely for collision damage. Remember, this is a sports car. It was purchased for its ability to go fast. I promise you, this one has been driven hard and put away wet. A good paint job at a reputable shop will start at about 1500.00, and will top out at about 3000.00, depending upon what the estimator sees. Low ball paint jobs are almost always a disapointment, full of dirt and imperfections, and most importantly, short lived. Look for another 300zx thats in better condition. Spend a little more money and get a car that has been garage kept. Now, go back and LOOK at the car, LOOK PAST the fact its a cool sports car. I bet you start to see a lot of things you didn't see before. Bill