1971 Type 3 ?

Prepare to have your tools lined up on the bench and ready to go 24/7.You didnt say if it was a stick or auto,but most Type 3s imported after 1968 were automatics.The trannys were very finnicky and next to the fuel injection system,required alot of maintenence. The FI system was another sore spot on this car,with cold starting being a bitch after these cars get some age on them. These cars were also prone to rust,especially underneath on top of the front fenders. These also were the first cars to sport an onboard diagnostic system,introduced in 1970.They were rudimentary in design,and worked half-assed at best.They later caused electrical system turmoil when they malfunctioned. But you could do worse......you could be looking at a Type 4!!!! Good luck.

My .02:

The Type 3 is very desirable. In many ways they were built better than the Type 1's.

Downside can be the body. Like the Ghia, there were many places that rusted out with little provocation. Check that carefully. If you plan to drive it where they use salt on the roads, I wouldn't bother buying it.

As mentioned, the FI and auto tranny are problematic. Especially on a car 35 yrs old. If you're not prepared to deal with them, buy something else. Very, very few mechanics are left anywhere who can work on the Type 3 FI. Of course, it could be converted to carbs if you fall in love with it.

The details of the "Diagnostic" system can be found on my web site. It's completely passive and doesn't interfere with daily running.

Things to do after 35 yrs: Replace *all* the rubber brake hoses. Ditto for brake wheel cyls, M/C, calipers. Every rubber seal in the system will be suspect.

Fuel lines too. They are under high pressure in an FI system.

I hope you can get the car and keep another Type 3 on the road.

Speedy Jim

A good friend of mine has a 412 that he has spent over $10,000 restoring!

Thanks, Jim and Sothern - I appreciate the thorough information! I will definitely check your website out. Fortunately I live in California where there is NO salt on the roads (or even on many dining tables as we are so health-conscious) I will check all of the items you mention for sure. I'm buying it from a mechanic so hopefully a lot of these things have been done already. I'm kind of figuring I will need to invest some of the money saved by getting a car of this age will need to go towards some upgrades and all. ;)

Thanks aga> Brian wrote:

He found the VIN number plate and has mail-ordered all the other parts?