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now - I don't want to burst your bubble -
but the "Phaeton" package was simply a $1900 decor option -
consisting of " simulated convertible top - special pin striping - wire wheel hubcaps -
and "Phaeton" emblems in place of "Coupe Deville" or "Sedan Deville emblems" -
I wouldn't pay any more for it than a "plain" 78 Deville in the same condition -
Thanks basscatt, Arizona Beige is a rare color for a Phaeton? I know in 79 they made alot more than 78. Just not sure how many 78's were produced.
I'm looking at about $3,000 for a Phaeton in good condition, not mint but good. My current one is in better shape, but the rarity of the package intrigues me.
If it is a good running car, mileage is appropriate, solid condition-wise (even if not mint), in today's market, $3000 is probably a very good price. I'd jump all over it! I couldn't tell you anything about the rarity of the color or the premium package, but I do know that even a Ford LTD of that vintage in good condition is gonna command at least $3000, probably more. Survivors from the 70's and 80's are really starting to gain traction with the "lower end" collector set, people with a little disposable income who want something unique but can't afford a 1957 Chevy, or don't have the time and knowledge for a heavy duty project. I'd snatch it up before anyone else has an opportunity to know it exists.
Hmmmm, is that the sort of thing I should be looking for next time I'm over? Before yet another car I like become too expensive (bearing in mind I've got to add shipping, duty AND tax!)
Thanks for that, it really confirms what I thought - I've only to think of all those cars I'd never have got rid of - if only I'd known!
The car has to be pre-'85 to get the favourable tax/duty rates - or I have to buy it in Europe, e.g. saw a really nice '90 Brougham in Belgium on Saturday but doing the (relatively complicated) arithmetic, & factoring in the logistics, I decided that it was too expensive. On the other hand, the earlier Fleetwood I looked at in Victorville, CA last year looked too good to be true (so probably was) & my nerve gave out as it was for sale in a car wash & I decided that was not a good basis for a major purchase.
Next year my road trip might be Norfolk, VA - L.A. (via the places name checked in Chuck Berry's "Promised Land") & there seem to be a lot of suitable cars in the Carolinas, so the search might just get a little more serious.
Paul, I have no idea how they sell cars in other countries or what is involved (because, you know, America.) However, here in the states, classic cars at dealerships are usually priced to the absolute maximum. With independent individuals selling a used car, you often have an opportunity to get something good at a price point that is a little more reasonable. Sometimes they are still gouging you. But I personally wouldn't have let the fact that it was in an unusual location deter me. Also, if you come to the Carolinas, let me know in advance and we'll meet up!
I think, from interested casual observation & what I've read, cars are sold pretty much the same all over.
Certainly what you say about dealerships & private sales holds good here too although, "Detroit icons" aside, your average British classic dealer knows little (&mainstream used car lots even less) about US imports, but the picture IS complicated by a number of specialist American car dealers which, curiously, sometimes offer quite good deals.
The "Promised Land" trip is definitely on, it's just a question of whether I do it next year or 2018. A factor is, if I'm to combine it with a buying trip means (as we seem to be agreed) it should be sooner rather than later AND the Carolinas do seem to be a happy hunting ground for older Caddys.
Nice idea, look forward to making your acquaintance.
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