Honestly I dont know much about Minis, especially innocentis. I am looking into buying a '73 Innocenti I found for sale and was wondering how much I should pay for it. I have always loved these cars and have wanted to to get into them. It sounds like a good deal to me, but I'm not sure. Its in pretty good shape - needs about $500 in engine work and $1000 in body work and replacement parts. Any idea what this might be worth? I know thats a tough question, but even a price range would help. Thanks to all of you that do know these cars well.

 

1000.00 in body work is a car in great shape.......really take a look at everything..........price is up to the buyer.....depends what it is worth to you to own one........if its in great shape maybe 10k - 15k ...good shape 8 - 10 k...ok shape 6 - 8k.......but thats just my rough guide.....good luck....and pics would help

 

some of the parts are unique to innocentis and may be difficult to replace unless you live in italy or speak some italian.

 

most of the parts that are a pain are the stuff inside the car......most of the body panels and such are the same.......

 

Go to a book store and buy a MiniWorld magazine (if you're a masochist). The UK classifieds are filled with minis at what appears to be half priced, compared to USA values. Granted, postage stamped-sized photos don't tell much about the condition, but it sure seems that we pay a hefty premium once Minis are stateside. I can see why some folks buy abroad. I don't think I would have the nerve/connections to attempt that, though.

 

My rule of thumb.....

If it will start reliably and can pass a state safety/emission inspection (should your state have one) - $8000 and go from there. It can be a wreck but run reliable and I feel $8k is a baseline. Everything better from there add $$$$

I watch turkys.com so see what the market is doing.....

I didn't say I'd buy from him...nor that his prices are good....but you can watch over time what's going on for a guy that moves a number of Mini's

....everything is for sale, the question is, how actively are we negotiating a price?

Make me an offer!

 

Buying abroad isn't all that hard. I'm on my 4th right now. Prices are cheaper over there even with the exchange rate and shipping, so you can get a lot more car for the money. My first time I did most of the footwork on my own and that was a bit stressful. But if you have someone who knows their way around a Mini doing the shopping and inspections for you, you can rest assured that you are getting a solid car at a good value. For my more recent shopping I've been using Phil at www.yourclassic.co.uk and have been pleased with the process. He's been working on and restoring Minis for years and offers as little or as much help in the process as you need.

UPDATE

Okay, I am taking back my recommendation of Phil Kruman at www.yourclassic.co.uk. In fact, I'm suggesting you AVOID using any of his services. If you have questions or want details, PM me.