91 Q45 - replace or repair?

[pahrding]

I have a 91 Q since new with 140K miles. The car is cosmetically in great shape. So much so that a couple of people have remarked on it and one wanted to know if it was a new model! Major work on the car has included a new transmission at 40k and new fuel injectors at 80k and again at 120k. New struts, bushings etc at 62K and new brakes including rotors a cou[ple of months ago. Currently it is in need of new struts, tie rods and rear suspension bushings. Also p/s hose and new rack& pinion gear. However, the timing Chain Guides are original. From what I've been reading it seems that I would be taking a big risk by spending any more money without replacing those guides. I estimate the total cost at around $5000. The car has a blue book value of $600-$1300 but if I could drive it even another 3 years it would still be cheaper than replacing it, but it would not be worth insuring for theft or collission as the payout would be less than a grand. The other downside is that if the work was not done right I would be a whole lot worse off. I have posted separately on this board for recommendatoons on a good mechanic in Phoenix. I am sure someone out there has been in a smilar dilemma and so would appreciate advice.

[maxnix]

What can you drive that's better than your G50 for the cost of maintaining it?

Check AZHitman's posts. I think it is called European Imports.

[Kiven422]

Yes - this car is cheap when it comes to cost but can get costly when it comes to maintenance.

I have spent over $1800 just on rehabilitation since last year I bought the 94Q. Still have much more things to do but they are the "little" things.

Though its very rewarding.
Modified by Kiven422 at 1:03 PM 11/11/2008

[Panther in a Q45a]

Struts for sale: zer...rings

[Jesda]

Its hard to make a practical argument in favor of keeping and fixing most old luxury cars, so the decision ultimately becomes an emotional one.

Where can you get that much nice for that low of a price, including repairs? Forget about the book value and just enjoy it.