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Path: utzoo!watmath!clyde!burl!ulysses!allegra!mit-eddie!godot!harvard!seismo!hao!nbires!opus!atkins
From: atkins@opus.UUCP (Brian Atkins)
Newsgroups: net.consumers,net.wanted,net.auto
Subject: Used Subaru advice wanted
Message-ID: <1118@opus.UUCP>
Date: Tue, 5-Mar-85 17:53:04 EST
Article-I.D.: opus.1118
Posted: Tue Mar  5 17:53:04 1985
Date-Received: Fri, 8-Mar-85 04:46:48 EST
Distribution: net
Organization: NBI,Inc, Boulder CO
Lines: 40
Xref: watmath net.consumers:1936 net.wanted:5953 net.auto:5979


We have decided to buy a Subaru 4X4 Wagon, something between
1980 and 1984.   What I would like is any advice on how much
I should expect to pay, and for what.  And what a dealer
considers a reasonable profit margin, and what he considers bottom
line.

There is a very nice 1981 GL model with A/C and only 39k+ miles.  
It is in very good condition, both inside and out, but they are
asking $7575.00 (after comming down from $8200.00+).  Is this
way too much, considering the VERY good condition and mileage
(especially on a Subaru in Boulder, Colo.)?

Also, there is NO warranty, unless you buy a 1 year for $500, or
two for $600.  Is this kind of warranty a sucker's bet, like
extended warranties on washers and the like? (Don't forget,
it's an '81.)

Some notes:
	1. This is Subaru wonderland, Denver/Boulder area and the Rockys
	    in general.  They are VERY popular, and 4x4 GLs as nice as this
	    one are very scarce.

	2. The dealer said they paid $6900.00 for it.  Am I right
	    in believing this is a bunch o' hooey? (Book RETAIL with
	    all the options this car has puts it at $5525.00)

	3. This is a very nice car, and I wouldn't mind paying
	    a little more for it, I just don't want to get completely
	    hosed.

Also, any techniques on bartering with used car dealers would be
greatly appreciated (yes, this is my first time).

TIA
Brian Atkins   ...{hao, allegra, ucbvax, amd}!nbires!atkins

ps. I realize he who could answer all these questions completely would
	make millions selling "how to buy.." books.  I would just like
	general impressions and advice.