Need opinion on a buy..

[Andarou]

So.. in a nutshell, i have two options:

(keep in mind, pics arent a concern.. as I'm not worried about the shape of the body, but both are "fair")

Option 1:

89 240 coupe
Does not run, currently a "shell"
5spd
$900

95 240 coupe.. of course.
Runs, drives, currently someones DD
5spd
currently had some 17" wheels + interior (radio), exhaust mods..
takin care of
$2000ish


I currently have a KA that i'm in the process of rebuilding.. stripped down and takin apart, waitin to be sent to the shop for cleaning, resurfacing, internals installed
So, either way the car will be getting a rebuilt transplant.

I have a DD at the moment, but me and my wife (doesnt work, stays with kids) share it.. and she needs something to drive to the doctors, store, etc.. as I'm gone most of the day/evening.. 6 days a week.

I could grab the pricier one, that runs, drives, newer S14 model.. and hold off on building the KA i have apart (until god knows when.. im not rich or even have much of a savings)
Or I could grab the less priced S13, spend a good chunk of the difference between the two cars on finishing or add some nice mods (pistons, rings, valves/retainers, gasket set.. sounds about 800-900)

So.. I'm torn.
I'd like someones opinion on this matter since I dont know many gearheads (none, actually) in person.

btw.. Anyone have proof that the KA24DE has FORGED rods and crank? .. I know the pistons arent... but I'm pretty sure the rods and crank are.

THANKS

[FlipCoupe]

I would go with the S14 simply because it already runs.

900 for an S13 shell + transmission is a bit high imo

[Andarou]

in SW FL, where I am.. people think s13/14 shells are priceless.. can barely find one in decent condition (no rust, noticable dents) for under 1.5k..

otherwise I'd have to drive to orlando/miami to get one for under 1k.. in which case the tow charges n fees will bump it up another 200-300.

They're just hard to find.

And I'm dealing with an under 1900-2k budget, so it's either the s14 and no modifying that for a bit, or the shell with started modification.

Tough.. I know. (at least in my eyes)

I've been in hopes for the s14 for a bit now, the s13 shell just popped up.

Thanks for your input!

[Lobo240sx]

Go with the running S14. I would not spend more than $400-500 for a decent 240sx shell. You being on the east coast I'd definitely check out the bottom of the car's frame rails and see if there is any rust before you buy.

I know these cars are getting rare and soon considered classics, but some of those Need 4 Speed, Fast and Furious prices for these cars are ridiculous.

[LoserCard]

A bird in hand is worth 2 in a bush... Same analogy goes with running cars... Stick with the running car. Shells may be rare in your area, I couldn't justify paying $900 for just a shell. Maybe if it was just non running with everything in it.

[Chewbacca117]

I would go with the running car. Although you said your gonna throw another motor in it. This one will be available for you your convince. You can also sell the other motor to make up some of your $$ or keep it as a spare.

[Andarou]

Thanks a lot everyone for the input.

Definitely hard to make up my mind.. helps with a 2nd opinion.