Hi,

I am a 2 time Barchetta owner, looking at a 3rd as a 2nd car.

I'd appreciate any thoughts on this.

Http://www.gtisportscars.co.uk/used-cars/fiat-barchetta-1-7-16v-2dr-lhd-chesham-201602181152915

According to the dealer the advisory on Mot reads "brake disc worn,pitted or scored but not seriously weakened front".

Belt changed at 67164.

I've checked the DVLA MOT checker and am now confused as it shows the mileage reading as changing between miles and KMs.

I cannot get barchettas out my system but don't need a £3k headache.

I got rid of my last one around 5 years ago. It was an N reg. I guess problems are going to be fairly regular.

Am I mad?

Pictures look OK, but check under the rear arches for rust, also inner sill area under the front speakers. Really difficult to say but it looks like STD spec.Look at this on eBay http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/281987643690
Could have the same issues but it is an LE with extras.
And regarding your question "am I Mad" yes but you will have fun.

Having a look at the advisories and fails on recent years on the eBay one makes me feel better about the one I was looking at!

I should probably just man up and take a chance!

What's the worst that can happen!!!:bang:

barchingmad said:

What's the worst that can happen!!!:bang:

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Exactly! It looks straight and tidy, long MOT, and it's got the option pack (elec windows and central locking) which is handy. Leather seats would be nice, but you can pick those up. Mileage is high, but not stratospheric. With the cambelt, check when it was changed, as the recommended change intervals are date-related as well as mileage-related. You'd probably get it for closer to £2500 if you're holding folding (RIP Arfur Daley).

There aren't many ways you can (legally) get so much fun for so little money.

So deal is done. I am now a proud (and slightly nervous) 3rd time barchetta owner.

Hoping to get it delivered early next week.

Will report back, and no doubt be looking for advice in the future.

A trip to the legend that is Ferdi, from Ferdis in Lytham, will be one of my first drives!

I liken my relationship with barchettas to be the same as Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton!

gar074 said:

Exactly! It looks straight and tidy, long MOT, and it's got the option pack (elec windows and central locking) which is handy. Leather seats would be nice, but you can pick those up. Mileage is high, but not stratospheric. With the cambelt, check when it was changed, as the recommended change intervals are date-related as well as mileage-related. You'd probably get it for closer to £2500 if you're holding folding (RIP Arfur Daley).

There aren't many ways you can (legally) get so much fun for so little money.

Click to expand...

barchingmad said:

I liken my relationship with barchettas to be the same as Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton!

Click to expand...

I get it - the car needs a face-lift and you've got a drink problem ... or is it the other way round?

Congrats on the purchase - you only live once!