Selling my 1987 IROC convertible - advice wanted....
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From: Sherman Oaks, CA
Car: 2011 BMW X5 35d (diesel)
Engine: 3.5 ltr twin turbo diesel, 425lb/ft
Transmission: 6 speed auto
Axle/Gears: All wheel drive
Selling my 1987 IROC convertible - advice wanted....
Unfortunately, circumstances require that I part with my 'vert. This wasn't something I ever thought I would have to do, or I wouldn't have dumped so much time and money into it (well, maybe I would have!).
https://www.thirdgen.org/forums/cama...nvertible.html
Although I've been on TGO for a few years now, I still don't know everything
So, I wanted to ask some advice - in what range should a decent 'vert fetch these days?
It's clearly not a mint car, but compared to some of the junk out there that's been abused, molested, modified and otherwise beaten to death, it's a very decent car.
I know I'm not going to get anywhere near what I've put in the car, nevertheless, I would like to get what it's worth. I just don't know what that it.
If any of you would give me your honest opinions, I would be grateful. I don't want to give it away, but I don't want to be one of those idiots that insists my car is worth far more than it really is. The reality is, it's worth what someone will pay. I'm just looking for a little guidance.
My ad says best offer above $5k - I wonder if you guys think that's fair (even if I don't get it...), or if I'm way off base.
Even when my car is gone, I will still be crusing TGO. I could never have brought this car into good shape without your help, you guys are great.
p.s. I didn't place this to double post my ad, I am honestly looking for feedback...
https://www.thirdgen.org/forums/cama...nvertible.html
Although I've been on TGO for a few years now, I still don't know everything
So, I wanted to ask some advice - in what range should a decent 'vert fetch these days? It's clearly not a mint car, but compared to some of the junk out there that's been abused, molested, modified and otherwise beaten to death, it's a very decent car.
I know I'm not going to get anywhere near what I've put in the car, nevertheless, I would like to get what it's worth. I just don't know what that it.
If any of you would give me your honest opinions, I would be grateful. I don't want to give it away, but I don't want to be one of those idiots that insists my car is worth far more than it really is. The reality is, it's worth what someone will pay. I'm just looking for a little guidance.
My ad says best offer above $5k - I wonder if you guys think that's fair (even if I don't get it...), or if I'm way off base.
Even when my car is gone, I will still be crusing TGO. I could never have brought this car into good shape without your help, you guys are great.
p.s. I didn't place this to double post my ad, I am honestly looking for feedback...
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From: Friendswood/Pearland
Car: '92 Heritage Z28 Convertible
Engine: 305
Transmission: T5
Condolences.
I think the car is worth about between 5-6k. You should have no problem selling the car. I have noticed that that color seems to drive the price up for some reason.
I think the car is worth about between 5-6k. You should have no problem selling the car. I have noticed that that color seems to drive the price up for some reason.
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From: Sherman Oaks, CA
Car: 2011 BMW X5 35d (diesel)
Engine: 3.5 ltr twin turbo diesel, 425lb/ft
Transmission: 6 speed auto
Axle/Gears: All wheel drive
Originally Posted by plndtx
Condolences.
I think the car is worth about between 5-6k. You should have no problem selling the car. I have noticed that that color seems to drive the price up for some reason.
I think the car is worth about between 5-6k. You should have no problem selling the car. I have noticed that that color seems to drive the price up for some reason.
Joined: Jul 1999
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From: Tucson, Arizona USA
Car: 1987 Z28 Convertible
Engine: 305 TPI
Transmission: 5-speed
You might want to mention that your car is not a factory convertible. That it was either:
1) Sold to the original dealership as a coupe and converted by the dealership and sold, or
2) Sold to the original owner as a coupe and he/she had it converted.
The sixth VIN digit of "2" confirms this. Factory convertibles show a "3" here as well as a "20th Anniversary...." map pocket. I'm sure you already knew this though. Full disclosure is always the way to go, especially when selling a vehicle..... just in case! Just trying to help!
1) Sold to the original dealership as a coupe and converted by the dealership and sold, or
2) Sold to the original owner as a coupe and he/she had it converted.
The sixth VIN digit of "2" confirms this. Factory convertibles show a "3" here as well as a "20th Anniversary...." map pocket. I'm sure you already knew this though. Full disclosure is always the way to go, especially when selling a vehicle..... just in case! Just trying to help!
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From: Sherman Oaks, CA
Car: 2011 BMW X5 35d (diesel)
Engine: 3.5 ltr twin turbo diesel, 425lb/ft
Transmission: 6 speed auto
Axle/Gears: All wheel drive
Thanks for the info, Willie.
I know my car was done by ASC, and it was bought from the dealer as a convertible. However I didn't know that it made any difference as to which ones carried the dash plaque and which didn't, except that some were an Anniversary Edition, and some weren't.
I certainly didn't intend to imply the car was something that it isn't.
So, I should state that it's not a factory convertible, even though it's my understanding that it was made at the same factory as the 'factory' ones?
Doesn't simply not saying it's a "20th Anniversary Edition' cover the difference?
I don't mean to come off as defensive, I just don't understand the difference - if there is one - other than the plaque...
I know my car was done by ASC, and it was bought from the dealer as a convertible. However I didn't know that it made any difference as to which ones carried the dash plaque and which didn't, except that some were an Anniversary Edition, and some weren't.
I certainly didn't intend to imply the car was something that it isn't.
So, I should state that it's not a factory convertible, even though it's my understanding that it was made at the same factory as the 'factory' ones?
Doesn't simply not saying it's a "20th Anniversary Edition' cover the difference?
I don't mean to come off as defensive, I just don't understand the difference - if there is one - other than the plaque...
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From: Friendswood/Pearland
Car: '92 Heritage Z28 Convertible
Engine: 305
Transmission: T5
Do you really need to get into all of that with a buyer? This seems to be a subject that only third gen geeks really enjoy delving into. I think 95% of third gen vert buyers could care less if the 6th digit is a 2 or a 3. They probably wouldn't understand what you were trying to tell them if you did.
And for the 5% that do care, let them do the research and figure it out on their own.
Caveat Emptor
And for the 5% that do care, let them do the research and figure it out on their own.
Caveat Emptor
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From: Avatar: My 34' 1989 Scarab III w/ twin 454's (502's Started!)
Car: 1989 Wellcraft Scarab III
Engine: Twin 454's
Axle/Gears: Twin Mercruiser Bravo I's
I think what Willie is saying is to explain it all from the start, for the benefit of the novices as well as those that might wonder why it wasn't said. I don't believe he was in anyway implying that '87 IROC VERT was being dishonest. It was more for the buyers benefit is the way I took what Willie was saying.
I felt and feel that '87 IROC VERT was very open and honest in his ad (and he knows that, I feel, from a prior PM I sent to him). I also feel that Willie is correct that it should be "let known", but that is just my humble
I wish you the best '87 IROC VERT, I think you know that.
I felt and feel that '87 IROC VERT was very open and honest in his ad (and he knows that, I feel, from a prior PM I sent to him). I also feel that Willie is correct that it should be "let known", but that is just my humble

I wish you the best '87 IROC VERT, I think you know that.
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From: Sherman Oaks, CA
Car: 2011 BMW X5 35d (diesel)
Engine: 3.5 ltr twin turbo diesel, 425lb/ft
Transmission: 6 speed auto
Axle/Gears: All wheel drive
Doesn't seem like a major issue to me. Anyway, in the spirit of full disclosure, I took the step of including my VIN because I have nothing to hide.
I suppose for anyone that wants to know about factory ASC vs. non-factory ASC or dash plaque vs. no plaque, they can figure out what they want to know from the VIN, as well as run a CarFax should they want to check mileage, owners, etc.
Why make people ask me for the VIN, when I already know any serious buyer is going to ask for it and check it out
----------
Thanks, guys. I've been around here for a few years, and haven't told any stories yet!
And I completely appreciate where Willie was coming from, I guess it was just a little confusing for me... thanks, 92 Formula!
I suppose for anyone that wants to know about factory ASC vs. non-factory ASC or dash plaque vs. no plaque, they can figure out what they want to know from the VIN, as well as run a CarFax should they want to check mileage, owners, etc.
Why make people ask me for the VIN, when I already know any serious buyer is going to ask for it and check it out

----------
Thanks, guys. I've been around here for a few years, and haven't told any stories yet!
And I completely appreciate where Willie was coming from, I guess it was just a little confusing for me... thanks, 92 Formula!
Last edited by '87 IROC VERT; Jul 17, 2006 at 10:47 PM. Reason: Automerged Doublepost
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From: Tucson, Arizona USA
Car: 1987 Z28 Convertible
Engine: 305 TPI
Transmission: 5-speed
Thanks for the info, Willie.
I appreciate that you didn't construe my information as insulting. I've been around this board since the very beginning and always present only factual information. Sometimes it comes across as an attack. Thanks for understanding that it was not.
I know my car was done by ASC, and it was bought from the dealer as a convertible. However I didn't know that it made any difference as to which ones carried the dash plaque and which didn't, except that some were an Anniversary Edition, and some weren't.
Yes, I can tell by the pics that it is an ASC job. So it appears that the dealer purchased the car from GM as a coupe and shipped it themselves to ASC. As for the anniversary, only the "3" cars, delivered to the dealership as convertibles, are considered anniversary cars.
I certainly didn't intend to imply the car was something that it isn't.
Oh, I totally understand. I just needed to present the facts to you, the seller, as more of an FYI than anything.
So, I should state that it's not a factory convertible, even though it's my understanding that it was made at the same factory as the 'factory' ones?
To be totally honest, if it were my car, I'd state it as I did here. Explain that the conversion was done by the same company the "factory" convertibles are performed at and leave it at that. Then again, that's just my opinion. But it may be in your best interest to do this, especially since the "factory" 1987 convertible IROC-Z's had only two possible drivetrain combinations: 1) 305 LG4 (carb) with an automatic and 2) 305 TPI with a 5-speed.
Doesn't simply not saying it's a "20th Anniversary Edition' cover the difference?
Well, even though this is true, it doesn't present the complete facts. Most buyer's wouldn't understand.
I don't mean to come off as defensive, I just don't understand the difference - if there is one - other than the plaque...
Understood. I hope I clarified this. I am the 1987 Camaro convertible expert here as I've researched this particular car since 1991 and have owned three (currently one).
Do you really need to get into all of that with a buyer? This seems to be a subject that only third gen geeks really enjoy delving into.
Not necessarily. How would you like to be the one who buys it and afterwards, discovers that there are "factory" and non-factory third gens? You would probably assume you purchased an original "factory" car because these facts were not given to you at the time of purchase. I deal on the collectibility side of this. Therefore, it is very important to me to spell the facts out as they are. Geeks? Nope. Collector? Yep.
Willie
I appreciate that you didn't construe my information as insulting. I've been around this board since the very beginning and always present only factual information. Sometimes it comes across as an attack. Thanks for understanding that it was not.
I know my car was done by ASC, and it was bought from the dealer as a convertible. However I didn't know that it made any difference as to which ones carried the dash plaque and which didn't, except that some were an Anniversary Edition, and some weren't.
Yes, I can tell by the pics that it is an ASC job. So it appears that the dealer purchased the car from GM as a coupe and shipped it themselves to ASC. As for the anniversary, only the "3" cars, delivered to the dealership as convertibles, are considered anniversary cars.
I certainly didn't intend to imply the car was something that it isn't.
Oh, I totally understand. I just needed to present the facts to you, the seller, as more of an FYI than anything.
So, I should state that it's not a factory convertible, even though it's my understanding that it was made at the same factory as the 'factory' ones?
To be totally honest, if it were my car, I'd state it as I did here. Explain that the conversion was done by the same company the "factory" convertibles are performed at and leave it at that. Then again, that's just my opinion. But it may be in your best interest to do this, especially since the "factory" 1987 convertible IROC-Z's had only two possible drivetrain combinations: 1) 305 LG4 (carb) with an automatic and 2) 305 TPI with a 5-speed.
Doesn't simply not saying it's a "20th Anniversary Edition' cover the difference?
Well, even though this is true, it doesn't present the complete facts. Most buyer's wouldn't understand.
I don't mean to come off as defensive, I just don't understand the difference - if there is one - other than the plaque...
Understood. I hope I clarified this. I am the 1987 Camaro convertible expert here as I've researched this particular car since 1991 and have owned three (currently one).
Do you really need to get into all of that with a buyer? This seems to be a subject that only third gen geeks really enjoy delving into.
Not necessarily. How would you like to be the one who buys it and afterwards, discovers that there are "factory" and non-factory third gens? You would probably assume you purchased an original "factory" car because these facts were not given to you at the time of purchase. I deal on the collectibility side of this. Therefore, it is very important to me to spell the facts out as they are. Geeks? Nope. Collector? Yep.
Willie
Joined: Jul 1999
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From: Tucson, Arizona USA
Car: 1987 Z28 Convertible
Engine: 305 TPI
Transmission: 5-speed
Back around 1997, a guy I didn't know contacted me. He said he owned a 1988 350 IROC-Z convertible and that he understood I also owned a convertible. He asked if he could stop by to see it as he'd never seen another. I said, "Sure." He came over and we checked each other's ride out. Because I knew that his car was either not an original 350 or a customer owned ASC conversion, I examined his VIN. It was a "2" car. I was hesitant to tell him because he bragged over how his car was a super rare 350 convertible. I did eventually tell him in a tactful way. I know how this type of information can make one feel insulted.... I started telling him with a history of the third gen convertible, including how ASC became the GM authorized conversion company; that through 1988, they not only did this for GM but for dealerships and privately owned vehicles. He understood and didn't seem insulted (not too much anyways).
It's all about disclosure and knowing what you have, or want to buy. Just trying to help and in no way should my statements be taken as offensive or disrespectful. I'm just not that kind of guy.
Willie
It's all about disclosure and knowing what you have, or want to buy. Just trying to help and in no way should my statements be taken as offensive or disrespectful. I'm just not that kind of guy.
Willie
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From: Sherman Oaks, CA
Car: 2011 BMW X5 35d (diesel)
Engine: 3.5 ltr twin turbo diesel, 425lb/ft
Transmission: 6 speed auto
Axle/Gears: All wheel drive
That's why we're here, for the information - and I do appreciate it!
You know, sometimes I've had a good laugh over the last few years reading a post where some kid actually tries to argue about the authenticity of certain options that he swears are 'factory'.
Okay, I may not be really old, but I was driving an '86 IROC in....
1986
I really like my 'vert a lot, and wish circumstances were different. This is not my first third gen, and will probably not be my last. I've been obsessed with them for over 20 years, why would I think it would stop now?
You know, sometimes I've had a good laugh over the last few years reading a post where some kid actually tries to argue about the authenticity of certain options that he swears are 'factory'.
Okay, I may not be really old, but I was driving an '86 IROC in....
1986
I really like my 'vert a lot, and wish circumstances were different. This is not my first third gen, and will probably not be my last. I've been obsessed with them for over 20 years, why would I think it would stop now?
Joined: Jul 1999
Posts: 2,926
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From: Tucson, Arizona USA
Car: 1987 Z28 Convertible
Engine: 305 TPI
Transmission: 5-speed
Not to date myself also but.... my first NEW car purchase was a 1983 Berlinetta...... and I also owned a new '86 Z28....... Yep, been around the block more times than most here including you!!!
Willie
Willie
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From: Doghouse ······································ Car: 1989 Formula 350 Vert Engine: 350 L98 Transmission: 700R4 Axle/Gears: B&W 3.27
Car: 87 Formula T-Top, 87 Formula HT
Engine: 5.1L TPI, 5.0L TPI
Transmission: 700R4, M5
Axle/Gears: Sag 3.73, B&W 3.45
I see that it is an LB9/A4 IROC, it may be that the original customer wanted the more efficient LB9 engine but not a 5 speed... IIRC in 1987 the only way you could get a factory IROC vert was with a LG4/A4 or LB9/M5...
Just a guess.
John
Just a guess.
John
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From: Sherman Oaks, CA
Car: 2011 BMW X5 35d (diesel)
Engine: 3.5 ltr twin turbo diesel, 425lb/ft
Transmission: 6 speed auto
Axle/Gears: All wheel drive
You're probably correct - although if it's true that there were only 744 (or so) of the 'factory' ones made that year, I suppose it's possible it was simply a matter of supply vs. demand.
I do like the car, and wish circumstances were different. I would really like to see it painted, with me behind the wheel on a Saturday evening with the top down...
I do like the car, and wish circumstances were different. I would really like to see it painted, with me behind the wheel on a Saturday evening with the top down...
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From: Sherman Oaks, CA
Car: 2011 BMW X5 35d (diesel)
Engine: 3.5 ltr twin turbo diesel, 425lb/ft
Transmission: 6 speed auto
Axle/Gears: All wheel drive
No hits on the car, I am surprised. Do you guys think I'm asking too much for it? I thought $5k would be a fair price....the thought of losing MORE than $10k just doesn't appeal to me
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From: Doghouse ······································ Car: 1989 Formula 350 Vert Engine: 350 L98 Transmission: 700R4 Axle/Gears: B&W 3.27
Car: 87 Formula T-Top, 87 Formula HT
Engine: 5.1L TPI, 5.0L TPI
Transmission: 700R4, M5
Axle/Gears: Sag 3.73, B&W 3.45
You do realize that most of the people on this board are not interested in buying since we already have cars.
You may consider trying AutoTrader or some other local publication to advertise them... Around here there are 2 different types, the Free ones that you can puck up anywhere and the ones you pay $2. to get from a gas station. The Free ones are usually more expensive to advertise in, But I think if somoene is really interested in buying a car they would be inclined to spend a few dollars to get the magazine.
If it was ME, I would ask $8K for the car, and then when somone comes along and sais its too much let them make an offer, if its above $5000 jump
all over it.
John
You may consider trying AutoTrader or some other local publication to advertise them... Around here there are 2 different types, the Free ones that you can puck up anywhere and the ones you pay $2. to get from a gas station. The Free ones are usually more expensive to advertise in, But I think if somoene is really interested in buying a car they would be inclined to spend a few dollars to get the magazine.
If it was ME, I would ask $8K for the car, and then when somone comes along and sais its too much let them make an offer, if its above $5000 jump
all over it.
John
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From: Morganton, NC
Car: '92 T/A WS6 Vert/1956 Chevy Nomad
Engine: 350 TPI
Transmission: 700r4 w/ Transgo Kit
Axle/Gears: 3.42 LSD
Ummm ... $5k? I'd ask 6 and maybe come down a little in negotiations.
Auto Trader, Ebay or a local classified (we have a great little paper around here called "Iwanna" that is nothing but free classifieds) should get you some good money.
In my experience, Ebay usually brings the most money simply because you have a large audience and bidders that often get into "wars" over an item they want.
Auto Trader, Ebay or a local classified (we have a great little paper around here called "Iwanna" that is nothing but free classifieds) should get you some good money.
In my experience, Ebay usually brings the most money simply because you have a large audience and bidders that often get into "wars" over an item they want.
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From: Doghouse ······································ Car: 1989 Formula 350 Vert Engine: 350 L98 Transmission: 700R4 Axle/Gears: B&W 3.27
Car: 87 Formula T-Top, 87 Formula HT
Engine: 5.1L TPI, 5.0L TPI
Transmission: 700R4, M5
Axle/Gears: Sag 3.73, B&W 3.45
NADA states $3600
KBB states $3200
Edmunds states about $3000
I think the fact that your one year off, if you do a 1986 as a coupe on NADA is $5500.. IF you wait until next year the value will be much higher because it will be a classic.
Personally I think NADA, KBB and Edmunds are out of whack and way to low for what people are asking... I still think that 6K would not be a bad deal.
John
KBB states $3200
Edmunds states about $3000
I think the fact that your one year off, if you do a 1986 as a coupe on NADA is $5500.. IF you wait until next year the value will be much higher because it will be a classic.
Personally I think NADA, KBB and Edmunds are out of whack and way to low for what people are asking... I still think that 6K would not be a bad deal.
John
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From: Sherman Oaks, CA
Car: 2011 BMW X5 35d (diesel)
Engine: 3.5 ltr twin turbo diesel, 425lb/ft
Transmission: 6 speed auto
Axle/Gears: All wheel drive
Hylton - Ferrari is sold, one of the casualties of divorce. If I can't get a decent price for the car, I guess I will keep it - I don't want to give it away. I just have zero time for it, and it seems sad to let it sit in a rented garage while I pay for insurance, registration, etc.
As a single dad working full time, I don't know when I'll have time for this car.
You guys are right, there are better places to sell the car. But I don't have the time to get good photos, etc. and show it. The bonus to selling it here is most of you guys aren't tire kickers. You can search the boards and find all my posts, and get a pretty good idea about the car from a few guys who have seen it at the meets (Lonsal, for one).
Anyway, if anyone makes me a decent offer on it I will probably sell it. And if not, well, I guess it will sit until I have time for it
As a single dad working full time, I don't know when I'll have time for this car.
You guys are right, there are better places to sell the car. But I don't have the time to get good photos, etc. and show it. The bonus to selling it here is most of you guys aren't tire kickers. You can search the boards and find all my posts, and get a pretty good idea about the car from a few guys who have seen it at the meets (Lonsal, for one).
Anyway, if anyone makes me a decent offer on it I will probably sell it. And if not, well, I guess it will sit until I have time for it
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