kitco

Hello, i am looking to buy my first Mustang. I've been looking diligently on ads from craigslist, cars.com, and autotrader. I've also been looking at eBay. I am interested in ones from 01-04, v8, 5 speed, non-convertible. I am looking to spend $5-9k. What should I lookout for when inspecting these cars? I know these types of cars are usually driven hard. I've only tested one out so far - a black 2000 GT with 130k miles, lots of aftermarket parts, and young owner. Asked only $5k. Nearly bought it, but was bothered by the constant tapping noise from the engine and the extremely heavy clutch.

Explosive

Look for some guys wifes car. Thats what I'm doing. My personal rule is under 60K miles. 100% stock. The more mods it has done, the faster I run away. It's a mustang, if it has a ton of go fast parts you know it's been driven somewhat hard. Sure there are people who mod their cars and don't beat the **** out of them. But a lot do, especially a younger person.

gif4445

I def a agree with finding a car that is 100% stock, but that doesn't happen too often. And there almost no way of knowing if someone has beaten on a car, and if they did, these cars were made for a little beating here and there.

The main thing is when you're looking for a car, make sure you are COMPLETELY happy with what you are purchasing. If you have an inkling that there is something wrong, you are probably right.

Also, if you are willing to spend $9k on a New Edge, then you can find something really nice. So don't settle on something crappy

jt02gt

+1 I found mine a little over a year ago with 60k on it 100% stock for 9 which was what book was at the time

Explosive

Where do you guys find these deals ? It must be the area you're in. It seems in Michigan/surrounding area everyone wants a ton of cash for their car. They think they're worth their weight in gold.... I see tons of people asking like $15,000 for a 04 new edge.

Example.

http://lansing.craigslist.org/cto/1787514075.html

http://thumb.craigslist.org/cto/1784227424.html

http://detroit.craigslist.org/wyn/ctd/1782470649.html

http://cleveland.craigslist.org/cto/1777844222.html

Now keep in mind I don't want a vert and it has to be stock, but you get the idea... Anything with a decent price tag seems to be modded or has like 70,000 + miles.

This is why I was all over that 03 GT with 7000 miles for 12k from what I've seen thus far that was a deal...

GTV8

Ive seen ones like that also... I think sometimes people just slap a price to the car and hope someone buys it... most of what ive seen are around the kbb value but sometimes you get those weird ones that have low miles and they want like 15k or something for them...

The hardest thing is to find one with low miles.

MykesGt

The best thing I can tell you is just be patient and find one that has been well maintained with lil to no mods. I paid 10k for my 02 gt convertible with 50k miles 3 years ago and it looked like brand new. If you test drive one make sure everything is working right on it. Dont be afraid to let one go that has problems. Also if you have a friend that has one be sure to take him with you as he will know what to look for. Good luck in your search.

boduke0220

sold my 03 GT for 8000 with full bolt ons..advetised it at 9k and no one wanted it

Explosive

+1 to the waiting. Thats exactly what I'm doing. Waiting it get exactly what you want is well worth it IMO. The car will show up eventually you just have to keep an eye out. Also make sure to check auto trader they will offer some cars you might otherwise not see on craigslist.

kitco

Thanks for the suggestions. I will try to look out for one with as little modifications and adult driven. Car buying can get emotional. Do you guys also look into Carfax before making a purchase?