From: doctorduke_REMOVE_680665_THIS_@yahoo.com
From the CA BAR data on emission tests it can be reasonably concluded
that about ten percent of CVs are still operable.
As part of this excercise with the BAR I also received data for all
75-76 Vegas. Analysis of the Vega data indicated that only about one
percent are still operable, so the CVs are doing fairly well. That's
why I figure that a very fine Vega GT might actually end up being
worth more than a CV someday because they will eventually be
relatively rarer.
On the issue of resurrecting a dead car, if it's been in a garage it
is certainly a viable candidate and may not need that much work to
become operable; however, if a car has been sitting outside for years
- and that's where most end up - the chances are slim as sun and
weather take a tremendous toll. If a CV requires major mechanical,
body, and interior restoration, it's just not a economically viable
proposition at current price levels.
That's why my recommendation to buyers is to buy the best and most
expensive example you can find, then scrupulously maintain it. Trying
to resurrect a basket case just not a viable proposition. Even if you
wanted to spend $30K on a restoration, you can't buy many new parts -
especially the soft trim parts. I'm aware of several who started such
projects, but none was ever completed that I know of.
Duke
[This is message #10077 by user doctorduke on Yahoo! Group Cosworth Vegas: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/cosworthvegas ]