A Good Idea. . .?

[Guest YellowJacket894]

Okay, here's the situation: There's a local used car dealer that specializes in your run-of-the-mill used cars that have some age and miles under their belts and nothing but. However, there's a car on that lot that has caught my eye and I'm now seriously considering it.

The car is a 1995 to 1998 Oldsmobile Aurora with the four-point-oh liter V8, painted a stunning Jade Green, and with just about every option you'd want. I have no clue as to the milage the car has, or if there is any problems, but I'm going to check this car out again. I really, really like it.

The car isn't rear-drive like I like, but it has the V8 and it's a trade-off I'm willing to make.

And that's also where the S-10 comes into play.

If I get this car, I'll have two vehicles of my own to drive. My dad told me to keep the truck in any case, he doesn't want it back. So, as a result, if I have the S-10 and the Aurora, I'll turn the S-10 into a sport truck project as planned. But, I won't have any real deadline to have it done by because I'll have the Aurora to drive. And the Aurora doesn't need much at all -- if I do end up doing anything to it at all, it'll just be a new set of rims and tires and nothing more. And even that is questionable as the stock rims and tires aren't bad to start with, if not just a little plain.

I know the Aurora won't cost more than six grand, tops. By going by last year's NADA book, a 1998 Aurora goes for $4,850 at trade-in. And you've got to take into account that the price has depreciated somewhat after the time the guide was issued. Also, I've checked around on Auto Trader, Cars.com, eBay Motors, and Auto Mart.com and these cars are selling for under five grand.

This car has a lot going for it.

So, does the idea sound like it makes sense? Should I buy the Aurora to drive and invest a little in my S-10 as a project? Let me know. Also, any advice as to what to look out for when buying one of these cars would be appreciated.

Thanks guys.

Edited September 27, 2006 by YellowJacket894

[Northstar]

That wouldn't be a bad choice, IMO. Fly would be the one to ask, of course.

I remember my dad test drove a '95 Aurora in Jade Green way back in the day, but then we bought the LSS because it was like $9k cheaper.

[Guest YellowJacket894]

That wouldn't be a bad choice, IMO. Fly would be the one to ask, of course.

Hey, Fly, are you reading this?

I think the car is great. I should mention that the owner of the lot (stupidly) left the car unlocked and I managed to get a look inside (it's also how I managed to look under the hood). The tan leather is in stunning condition. The car almost looks new on the inside, save for a scratch on the shift lever. This car is honestly pristine.

If I can, I'll try to go back to the lot this week and check it out more, ask a price, start up the engine, maybe drive it.

I remember my dad test drove a '95 Aurora in Jade Green way back in the day, but then we bought the LSS because it was like $9k cheaper.

Did you buy it used or. . .?

[Drew Dowdell]

I have no clue as to the milage the car has, or if there is any problems....

197258[/snapback]

and

.... And the Aurora doesn't need much at all

197258[/snapback]

means you're not yet thinking with your head. You need to find out more information about the car first. I'm sure Fly can tell you that first gen Aurora's can be expensive to have work done if they need something. They are a very unique car and can only be serviced a some Cadillac and some former Oldsmobile dealers... often times being one in the same.

[Northstar]

Did you buy it used or. . .?

197267[/snapback]

No, he was deciding between the two, and the LSS was $9k cheaper new vs. new.

[Flybrian]

I'm sure Fly can tell you that first gen Aurora's can be expensive to have work done if they need something. They are a very unique car and can only be serviced a some Cadillac and some former Oldsmobile dealers... often times being one in the same.

197289[/snapback]

Well, they can be expensive to work on if you take it to a dealership. Many, many basic to moderate maintenance can be done at home with the proper tools and a buddy and the engine bay is suprisingly DIY-friendly...for a FWD TRANS-VERSAL POS UNIBODEE CAR LOLZ. Plugs and wires are a 30-minute job, so are the rear air shocks, etc and most repair work can be done at any good shop. Certain aspects, however, will be pricey, such as major transmission/engine servicing, etc because of the Oldsmobile-exclusive parts and don't fool yourself, the engine is Oldsmobile. No other vehicle in the entire world has the exact 4.0l Aurora engine, though it shares much in common with Cadillac's Northstar, meaning a Cadillac dealer will be required since most Olds retailers around here at least sell non-GM cars now.

For your consideration:

163,795 <-- Total number of 4.0l Auroras sold, including '01-'03

136,289 <-- Total number of Classic ('95-'99) Auroras sold.

That many Camries are sold in about three months, and even just-as-rare cars like the Riviera still have drivetrain commonality with popular LeSabres and Bonnevilles. I don't know the attrition rate, but I'd assume less than 100,000 are still on the road and their numbers keep dwindling. Keep in mind, its a car that is 7-11 years old today. Factor in the small total build numbers and you have an automobile that gets harder and harder to find parts for.

If you do buy one, don't get in an accident because it will likely be totalled. Read my story, as I'm sure you already have.

I know its sounds sour and bleak, but its a fact Aurora owners have to face. We're driving something endangered that is quickly becoming a true boutique car. This is something you have to prepare yourself for if you intend to buy one and keep one.

Knowing all that I do now, would I do it again? Yes. Because to me, the benefits of this car outweigh the hardships and hassles. You will never find a car that rides like this one does. You will not find a more stable sedan because automakers no longer make cars that are long and low like Aurora. You will not find a car that is so smooth in power delivery or shifting. You won't find a car with such distinctive lines, with such dynamic styling and proportioning. You won't find seats as comfortable or an interior so well laid-out. To me, its one for the ages and a car that people regret not buying, at least from the dozens of times its been told to me by complete strangers.

All I warn is know what you're getting into. If you're looking for a no-hassle luxury sedan, I'd honestly recommend something else. If you want a car you don't have to think about, don't even look at it again. But if you want to be uniquely rewarded by a car that gives what you put into it - and one that few have - you just may want an Aurora.

If you still want it, here's what to get on your next visit:

*Mileage (d'uh)

*VIN number/build date - I call tell you more about the car from that info, whether or not it has the Autobahn package.

*Take photos if you can.

For you to do:

*Drive it - see how it sounds, how it rides, any weird noises

*Fuel Rail - check the condition of the fuel rails, which are towards the cowl on the driver's side. If they are steel (metal), you're good; if they're nylon, you need them replaced immediately. Oldsmobile issued a recall on nylon fuel rails circa 1999 as they may deteriorate and lead to a fire. I know one Aurora that burned up because the recall wasn't performed. Again, this is a matter of having a shop simply do it.

*Window Seals - having frameless windows, seal deterioration can be an issue. Check and make sure all the seals are tight and leak-free. A preferred way of checking is to drive through an automated brushless car wash or one of those self-serve high pressure washes. Resealing the car isn't incredibly expensive, though.

*Equipment - make sure all the power equipment functions correctly - both seats, mirrors, windows, radio, steering wheel controls, HVAC, foglamps, cornering lamps, etc.

*Radio - bring along a music CD and try it out.Make sure no E21/22/23 error comes up on the radio. These Olds head units are notorious for eating CDs.

*Power Antenna Mast - the mast on this car is retractable. It should raise when the radio is on and lower when its off. A replacement is $50.

Those are mainly FYI things. I'd also have it looked at by a mechanic you know.

If you have any other questions at anytime, just let me know.

[Guest YellowJacket894]

Thanks, Fly. I really appreciate the advice. As a matter of fact, I'm going to print it off for reference.

Here's how it's looking: if the car seems like it's sound and soild, I'll try to go for it. If something causes concern, I'll have it checked by a local mechanic (which I'm going to do anyway if there's a concern or not) and see how much it costs to have it fixed. And if the cost is just too much, I'll leave it for someone else.

In Berea, and a city about fifteen minutes north of there called Richmond, there are Chevy dealers that used to sell Oldsmobiles. I know this from previous visits to both cities years prior to moving to Berea. In fact, about a year after GM phased out the brand, they both still had Chevy-Olds signs still up. They've since been taken down after one lot expanded it's tarmac area and the other got a total remodel. But, to be sure, I'll call both dealers and see if they still can perform needed matience to the Aurora. If not, there's a Cadillac-Hummer-Saturn dealer in Lexington I can take the car to. And that's a thirty minute drive, so it won't be so bad.

means you're not yet thinking with your head. You need to find out more information about the car first. I'm sure Fly can tell you that first gen Aurora's can be expensive to have work done if they need something. They are a very unique car and can only be serviced a some Cadillac and some former Oldsmobile dealers... often times being one in the same.

I was just referring to exterior and engine modifications. And, like I said, it doesn't need much if anything at all. If I got it, I would happy with it as is. If I did do anything to it, it would just concern the wheels and tires as something to do on a weekend with some free time.

In any case, I hope I have some good luck here and the car turns out to be soild and problem-free. I really like it. I think it would be a joy to own and drive.

[daves87rs]

If it's in pretty good shape-go for it....

[Variance]

Seems like he's already made up his mind :

Interesting...the Aurora looks almost like a Camaro in that pic.

[Guest YellowJacket894]

Seems like he's already made up his mind.  :

Yup.

I'll be going back to check it out again on Wednesday afternoon. I'll try to take some pics and get the VIN number so Fly can tell me if I'm getting the Autobahn package with the car or not.

Hopefully, the car will be sound. If things go right, I may just have it by the end of the month. (I'm crossing my fingers.)

Added thought: A guy at the Aurora Club of North America Forums has managed to get 225,000 trouble-free miles out of his Aurora. The following things, according to the owner, on the car are still orginal and haven't been replaced (and from what I gather they usually do get replaced way before the car even reaches the 200,000 mile marker):

BTW - Many things that usually need replacing by the time this mileage is reached (some more than once) she still has the ORIGINAL:

Alternator

Water Pump

Power Steering Pump

Both Idler Pulleys

All Steering Components and Struts

I know what to expect out of this car if I take good care of it.

Interesting...the Aurora looks almost like a Camaro in that pic.

I can sort of see what you mean. . .I think.

Edited September 25, 2006 by YellowJacket894

[Flybrian]

I know what to expect out of this car if I take good care of it. 

197548[/snapback]

ACNA is a great forum, by the way. Lots of knowledgable and helpful people, like C&G but Aurora-specific.

Anyway, here's the forum leader, a 308,550-mile 1995 Aurora, arguably the 'worst' year for an Aurora due to everything being completely, 100% new. Finally gave up and replaced her with an STS, but it shows that America could build that's luxurious, gadget-laden, and reliable, even in the mid-90s.

[Guest YellowJacket894]

ACNA is a great forum, by the way. Lots of knowledgable and helpful people, like C&G but Aurora-specific.

If I get the Aurora, they're going on the list of Bookmarked pages then.

Anyway, here's the forum leader, a 308,550-mile 1995 Aurora, arguably the 'worst' year for an Aurora due to everything being completely, 100% new. Finally gave up and replaced her with an STS, but it shows that America could build that's luxurious, gadget-laden, and reliable, even in the mid-90s.

Wow. That is reliable. Looks like I'll have this car for a while if it's mine.

[Guest YellowJacket894]

I'm heading out in a few minutes to look at the car. Anything else I should check?

[Guest YellowJacket894]

Just my luck: the dealer sold it.

However, after I got home, feeling just about as disappointed as could be, I browsed through Auto Trader.com and found another almost just like it at another dealer, local too. The only difference is this one is a 1999 model.

Also, upon looking at the photos of the '99 I found at Auto Trader, I realized the car I looked at wasn't Jade Green, but something of a teal shade. I guess it might have been repainted because the shade of green on the other car wasn't anything like the car in photo I'll post at the end of this. It was pretty dark, though.

I've also looked at the CARFAX report on the 1999. Apparantly, this car has migrated from Canada. The report comes back clean, too.

If you want to view the CARFAX, follow this link.

So, Fly, let me hit you up for some info on this one. I'll try to look at this one Saturday afternoon. . .and pray to God no one buys it.

Anyway, here's the info from Auto Trader, Fly. I'll verify it after I get back from looking at it this Saturday.

VIN: 1G3GR62C9X4110398

MILEAGE: 112,000

PRICE: $4,995

Images:

Fly, everyone, will I be an idiot for not going for this car?

Also, after coming home from today's waste of time, I realized that I don't think I'll do anything to the S-10 other than fix the wiper stalk. To do what I want to do to the truck will probably take $5,000 to do and investing the price of another vehicle into this truck is pointless right now. I say my mind might change on this, but not until I have enough spare money to throw around.

[ocnblu]

Is that road line paint on the fender liner? If so, that can be taken off with a power washer, lacquer thinner (left to soak for a good while to soften it up) or a plastic scraper. Take the wheel off and jack it up for easy access.

First-gen Auroras are fine looking cars.

[Guest YellowJacket894]

Holy &#036;h&#33;! There's another one in Lexington, a 1998 model. This one is priced at $2,995. Milage and VIN number is unknown, but if the '99 goes, I'll shoot for this one.

Link for the 1998.

Link for the 1999.

Kentucky is rich in Auroras for some reason.

Is that road line paint on the fender liner? If so, that can be taken off with a power washer, lacquer thinner (left to soak for a good while to soften it up) or a plastic scraper. Take the wheel off and jack it up for easy access.

It looks like mud to me from the photos.

Then again, I don't think I've actually seen road paint on the inner fender wells of a car before.

First-gen Auroras are fine looking cars.

Yes, they are. That's why I want one. A V8 and damn good looks are enough to make up for the lack of rear-drive. While I may be pro-rear-drive, I'll admit there are certain front-drive cars I would love to be caught dead in. The Aurora is one of them.

Edited September 27, 2006 by YellowJacket894

[Flybrian]

She looks excellent. I love that color and the interior is in top-notch condition. Naturally, check it out, drive it, etc. Also, to determine whether or not it has the Autobahn Package, open the driver's door and check the tire speed rating information. If it indicates 'V'-rated tires, you're looking at an Autobahn and I hate you.

I also hate you because 1999 is arguably the finest year for the Classic. As it is the last model year for that style, all the major bugs have been ironed out. You also have a parallel parking mirror ('97+), a compass readout on the inside rearview mirror ('97+), suspension and steering refinements ('98+), and more engine mounts ('99). Officially, that scheme is Dark Caribe Metallic (Evergreen).

Remember that CarFax doesn't tell the whole story. Two months ago, I ran one on my car and it came back clean. However, your own eyes and a trusted mechanic's are the best bet. She does look like a beauty, though, and 112,000 is nothing on these engines - I'm approaching 110k on mine. Hope she's there when you check it out. Take some more photos and let us know how she drives!

P.S. The white '98 seems rather cheap for that year. I'd bet the mileage is over 150k, but I could be wrong.

[Guest YellowJacket894]

Alright then. Looks like I'm looking at another sweet ride.

Does spending five grand on one vehicle make sense when you can just get another car for the same price? No. I don't think so.

[z28luvr01]

That green one is gorgeous. I've never seen a beige interior that spotless. Yeah, I'd probably say that's mud. If it were road paint it'd more likely be on the rocker and/or the lower door.

If you're interested in a hike, there's a '96 in my company's newspaper with 86K for $27xx. clicky here, then go to the last page.

[Guest YellowJacket894]

That's not a bad price, Z. Too bad it probably won't be there this summer -- that's when I could probably make the trip to get it if I got the chance.

[Flybrian]

If you're interested in a hike, there's a '96 in my company's newspaper with 86K for $27xx. clicky here, then go to the last page.

198473[/snapback]

But, you can get that '97 Corolla with 110k for only $900 more!

[Guest YellowJacket894]

But, you can get that '97 Corolla with 110k for only $900 more!

198532[/snapback]

OHNOEZZZ!!1!!!

On the way home today, it was madness. I counted three Auroras -- one in the school parking lot, another in the parking lot of a Cracker Barrel, and another traveling down the highway.

I'll take that as a sign. If I don't get this car. . .I'll be damn disappointed to say the least.

[Variance]

Speaking of Auroras, someone's selling a 2001 V6 for only $5K.

It does have an assload of miles (~116K) but the body and interior look in ok shape.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Oldsmobile-...031817100QQrdZ1

[Guest YellowJacket894]

I had some spare time today, so I went to check out the Green Aurora.

Guess how my luck turned out.

Yeah. That's right. They sold the frigging car.

I think (stress on think) I saw another one in Richmond, this one silver in color. And if it wasn't an Aurora, it sure as hell looked like one at a distance. I'll investigate this one further.

As for the white Aurora, I don't trust the dealer it's at. And, because I don't trust the dealer, I don't trust the car. I already own something that needs work and I don't need something else that will just take away what money I can get my hands on, regardless of how much I like it.

I guess I'll search for the next best thing: an Intrigue or a V-6 Alero. If I can't find either, I'm calling it quits with Olds. And probably the S-10, too. I may sound spoiled, but I sware I'm starting to hate that truck. It may be reliable, but I have a desire for something more than transportation from point A to B -- that's a typical Starbucks-drinkin', kitty-pettin', tree-huggin', piss-my-pants Toyota driver and I'm most certainly not one of those. I want something I can enjoy driving, looks at least halfway decent, and isn't falling apart asthetically and equipment-wise. That truck is going to take whatever money I can put in my wallet and put it right down the damn drain. Plus, you can't do &#036;h&#33; with the 2.2 four in those things. I know it was free, but I just don't see putting five grand, the price of another decent used car, in that truck -- I've done the math, and after paint and other parts, this thing will most certainly be in that ball park. Hell, a new wiper stalk costs $139.99 and that's more than one car payment on that Aurora. If someone else wants to paint it and put money into it, fine. But it sure as hell won't be me.

You know, right now I wish I was as lucky as a friend of mine. I'm not the biggest fan of the Cavalier, but he bought an '89 Z24 for $400 bucks. That car is in great shape. He literally stole that car. Hell, at that price and considering what great shape it's in, I'd buy and drive one.

Edited September 30, 2006 by YellowJacket894

[ocnblu]

Dude, those V6 Cavaliers were the &#036;h&#33;. I still love the sound of an early 2.8 or 3.1. So snarly.

[Flybrian]

Sorry, YJ. I'm trying to corner the market on Auroras...

[ocnblu]

I felt like I was in slow motion this evening as I passed a second-gen Aurora on the shoulder, front end crumpled, female driver staring into space as she looked over her deployed airbag and into the taillights of the Isuzu Trooper she had rear ended. Red and blue flashing lights strobed the sky, the officer waving people by the scene. Nothing to see here, people. Keep moving. Nothing to see here...

[FAPTurbo]

Not putting much cash into the S-10 is the smartest thing to do. Keep it as basic transportation that'll get you from A-B and hauling.

In the meantime, put your cash in the bank and buy something that costs a little more. You never know when say, the Camaro of your dreams, or something like that comes up.

And when it does, you'll have the cash for it.

That truck of mine is supposed to have had a Banks Turbo in it by now, or there's supposed to be an 80's Camaro or 'Vette outside my house. But I figured that if I keep my cash, and invest it as well, the perfect time will come.

[Guest YellowJacket894]

Scratch finding an Intrigue. I've only found seven total in this state on the web -- only two were local and none of them had the optional eight in it.

I'm looking at Aleros now, but this car moves pretty close to my no-buy-threshold. There's one in town, too, with the 3.4 liter six. It's an 2001 model with seventy-six thousand miles and the dealer wants a little under $6,500 bucks. It sounds a little too expensive, though.

Here's the link.

I still plan to check out what I thought was an Aurora, probably sometime next week when I get the chance.

Any suggestions on what I should look for next?

I want a car with the following:

-decent power

-four-cylinders are strongly discouraged (due to my current frustrations with that frigging 2.2; there are exceptions, though, and I think you can guess what those exceptions might be)

-rear-drive is preferred, but if the car is a decent looker, front-drive can be considered

-priced cheap and affordable

-manual is prefered, but I don't care to drive an automatic

If you know of something, let me know. Thanks.

[z28luvr01]

Well, what else do you want in a car? At first you wanted an Aurora, which makes me believe that luxury is some sort of priority. But then you go down to an Alero, which......

waitaminute. Forget what I was going to post. I think I've found something that might suit your fancy:

'98 Eldorado

I figure that one's probably too much, but look at that picture. Now I want one :wink:

This '96 might be right up your alley.

[Cory Wolfe]

Its strange how luxury cars can reel in a person. Ever since my Millenia, I've look at Auroras, first and second gens, Bonnevilles, Intriques, Infiniti Q45s, Rivieras, Eldorados, Park Avenues, etc... I've been tempted to trade. Especially this one Eldorado I once saw...

[Cory Wolfe]

Hmm... I looked at this 1998 Aurora when I was in Ohio a few weeks. Looked good. Beautiful color. Only $4k.

Aurora autobahn, eh? You mean... like this one? Only $3900.

[Cory Wolfe]

Hmm... My Reatta love is showing... Clicky. It's a bit much, but considering the mileage and condition, it might be worth it. I'd love to take it if my Millenia would come close to how much they want, but I doub't I'd be other even half that.

Grr... YJ, now look what you've done? You have me looking at cars again.

[ocnblu]

I just spent $2000 on pimping my truck and I'm still looking. Always looking.

[Cory Wolfe]

Man... I'm ready to get rid of the Millenia now.

1991 Infiniti M30 $3995 Love these cars... Real RWD-coupe luxury. I want it!!!!!

1994 Infiniti Q45 $3995 Love these as well, especially after they fixed the front. Another.

1997 Infiniti J30 $3900 Not so much a fan of these, but you can't argue RWD, luxury, great powertrain, and decent styling besides the rear.

[z28luvr01]

Hey BV, have you looked at a new Lucerne? Or, perhaps, a shoe?

[Guest YellowJacket894]

This '96 might be right up your alley.

That '96 is simply beautiful. Love the color, love the interior. There are just two things I'm not crazy about: the rims, although they're decent, and no CD player.

Maybe I'll check out a few more of these.

Grr... YJ, now look what you've done? You have me looking at cars again. 

The more, the merrier.

Hey BV, have you looked at a new Lucerne? Or, perhaps, a shoe?

[Guest YellowJacket894]

:rotflmao: You can see the block of wood holding the shoes up for that angle in that shot.

Edited September 30, 2006 by YellowJacket894

[ToniCipriani]

Scratch finding an Intrigue. I've only found seven total in this state on the web -- only two were local and none of them had the optional eight in it.

199329[/snapback]

Um... whoa... hold on a second. An Intrigue with an eight???

Do you mean Three Eight Zero Zero?

AFAIK, the only Intrigue with an eight was the Intrigue OSV, and that was a concept.

[Guest YellowJacket894]

Um... whoa... hold on a second. An Intrigue with an eight???

Do you mean Three Eight Zero Zero?

AFAIK, the only Intrigue with an eight was the Intrigue OSV, and that was a concept.

199630[/snapback]

I could've sworn I've seen a few Intrigues with optional eight-cylinder enigines.

Maybe I'm just confused, I don't know.

[Satty]

Nope, Intrigues had the 3800 from the start and the 3.5 was phased in. I guess one could install the 5.3 that most current W-bodys offer. The Second-gen Aurora had the standard 3.5 and optional 4.0 V8.

[Guest YellowJacket894]

I have no idea what I was thinking. And an eight isn't that much of a priority. As long as a car I'm looking at doesn't have a four-cylinder engine, I'm fine.

Guess I'll go back and see if there are Intrigues I can check into.

Edited September 30, 2006 by YellowJacket894

[Guest YellowJacket894]

:sign0200:

Here's one that's local.

1998 Olds Intrigue

The dealer wants $4995 for it and it has 124,000 miles. Think they could be pursuaded out of some cash?

[razoredge]

:sign0200:

Here's one that's local.

1998 Olds Intrigue

The dealer wants $4995 for it and it has 124,000 miles. Think they could be pursuaded out of some cash?

199647[/snapback]

Thats way too much, its 9 years old and has 124,000 miles. That car on a trade in probably brought $800. Its a 2500 car tops and thats alot of money to spend on something that would probably only be drivin another 40-60,000 miles.

I cant believe how much used dealers have up'd the price of used cars the past 5 years.

[Guest YellowJacket894]

Thats way too much, its 9 years old and has 124,000 miles. That car on a trade in probably brought $800. Its a 2500 car tops and thats alot of money to spend on something that would probably only be drivin another 40-60,000 miles.

For the most part, I actually agree with most of what you said. As for the durability of the car, that depends on how well maintained I keep it if I actually want to buy it. Same thing for any other buyer who wants it. If someone treats the car like a dog, it'll become a dog. If someone keeps the car serviced every 3,000 miles and has the car inspected around every 10,000, that car could run for another 100,000 miles.

Also, the current state of the car as it is setting on the dealer lot right now matters, too. If there is serious maintenance that needs to be performed due to neglect on the previous owner's behalf. . .well, that's obvious.

I checked over at NADA.com. Here's what their site said the car should be priced at.

I think that the car is worth maybe three grand tops, myself. I'll check the car out, though. If it seems solid, I'll make the dealer an offer. This is, after all, just a car setting on bargain row. Five grand was the price of that second Aurora I wanted at the start of this thread and looked into. The Aurora was a year newer, had fewer miles, and was a better car than the Intrigue.

Edited September 30, 2006 by YellowJacket894

[ToniCipriani]

Nope, Intrigues had the 3800 from the start and the 3.5 was phased in.  I guess one could install the 5.3 that most current W-bodys offer.  The Second-gen Aurora had the standard 3.5 and optional 4.0 V8.

199638[/snapback]

I don't think the LS4 will fit. The Intrigue, while being a W-body, is significantly modified from its siblings, and is smaller.

[ocnblu]

???

[razoredge]

Im surprised its that high for low retail, too much.

My point about the 40-60,000 was, that would take 3-4 years and then it would be 12-13 years old with 160-180,000 miles and you would need to give it away to get rid of it. Also stuff like rust and oil leaks, ect. ect happen during this period in any cars life, regardelss of care. I was surprised how quickly my 91 Regals condition fell off. The lower doors and lower quarters/fenders rusted from the inside - out. The fuel lines went, the tank was bad enough on top for me to replace it rather than chance it. Total brake system work, MAF went, fuel pump went, I didnt care, it was expected for a car that was 12 years old w/over 200,000 but then I paid 1000 for it not 4000. It was basically what you could call mint when I bought it considering its age and miles, a few dings and mild scratches, perfect interior and ran like a top, even when I traded it.

Also maybe some bad news for you, I believe the 98 was a 3800 and if I remember correctly that is not something you like.

Heres what things look like in my area, private sellers so no warranty

1997 AURORA

blk w/tan leather, 119kmi, looks & runs great, loaded, w/sunroof, nice, $2950 Clinton, NY (315) 292-3277

1999 intrigue

58kmi, 25-30MPG, EC, silver, 6cyl, PW/PL, cruise, AC, $4800 firm Castleton, NY (518) 337-3684

001 AURORA

leather, V6, auto, On-Star, new tires, brakes, 65kmi, 31MPG highway, showroom condition, must see! $13500 Warrensburg, NY (518) 623-9639

2001 aurora

fully loaded, moonroof, AM/FM/CD, leather, 6-way seats, On-star equipped, 76kmi, taupe, 1-owner, $8200 Cohoes, NY (518) 458-1993 Aft 5PM

2001 Intrigue

29kmi, LN, 1 owner, loaded, 25MPH, V6, $8995 Rotterdam, NY (518) 376-0175 (518) 374-2370

[razoredge]

forgot one, thats a bit important to me, might be priced high for a 96 and it doesnt say SC so thats a -

1996 LSS

111kmi, V6, fully loaded, maroon, leather int, GC, gd mileage, auto w/center shift, $4000 Chestertown, NY (518) 494-7139

Edited October 1, 2006 by razoredge

[Guest YellowJacket894]

Im surprised its that high for low retail, too much.

No kidding. When I fed all the data to NADA, I was expecting something much lower than what they generated.

Maybe it's wise to see what Blue Book says as well.

My point about the 40-60,000 was, that would take 3-4 years and then it would be 12-13 years old with 160-180,000 miles and you would need to give it away to get rid of it. Also stuff like rust and oil leaks, ect. ect happen during this period in any cars life, regardelss of care. I was surprised how quickly my 91 Regals condition fell off. The lower doors and lower quarters/fenders rusted from the inside - out. The fuel lines went, the tank was bad enough on top for me to replace it rather than chance it. Total brake system work, MAF went, fuel pump went, I didnt care, it was expected for a car that was 12 years old w/over 200,000 but then I paid 1000 for it not 4000. It was basically what you could call mint when I bought it considering its age and miles, a few dings and mild scratches, perfect interior and ran like a top, even when I traded it.

I can see your point with that. But when I set out to find another car, I was looking for one I could keep for a long time. Regardless of miles, if the car is in good shape and it's properly maintained, it could last for a long while.

The Aurora was a car that came to mind first because of the great styling and powertrain. I've always had a thing for the Aurora, regardless of which set of wheels are being driven (and that, by the way, is a preference I've learned to push to the side if I want to find a decent, later model car). But when Fly mentioned how Auroras are dwindling in numbers, I thought "future classic" -- a car that could be entered into a few shows into the future, not to mention the possibility of increasing value. I saw a great investment in it. Thus, I looked for other cars that expell the same trait and, suddenly, the last round of Oldsmobiles came to mind. The Alero probably is an exception, though -- they're still plentiful in numbers and most of them are in pretty decent shape. But it's pretty damn hard to find a nice Aurora or Intrigue.

Also maybe some bad news for you, I believe the 98 was a 3800 and if I remember correctly that is not something you like.

Eh, I'm not so much against the 3800 anymore. It was a garden-variety engine for GM during the Ninties. (Want a Camaro without an eight? It's there. Want a top-of-the-line Monte Carlo? It's in there, too.) There's no escaping it. Plus, aftermarket parts for the 3800 -- dual-exhaust systems, things like that -- are most certainly easier to find than for the 2.2 in the S-10 I've got. Knowing that if I want to tinker with a car a little if I've got some spare cash to throw around is something I find comfort in.

Heres what things look like in my area, private sellers so no warranty

  1997 AURORA 

blk w/tan leather, 119kmi, looks & runs great, loaded, w/sunroof, nice, $2950    Clinton, NY    (315) 292-3277

That's not a bad price at all. The color combo sounds like something up my alley, too. (I just wish I didn't have to make a road trip to get it. )

1999 intrigue 

58kmi, 25-30MPG, EC, silver, 6cyl, PW/PL, cruise, AC, $4800  firm Castleton, NY    (518) 337-3684

This is what I wish I could find setting at the dealer that has the Intrigue I'm considering.

Damn it. Why do all of the nice cars have to be out of state?

2001 AURORA 

leather, V6, auto, On-Star, new tires, brakes, 65kmi, 31MPG highway, showroom condition, must see! $13500    Warrensburg, NY    (518) 623-9639 

Great car, but thirteen-grand is a little too much for me to pay for.

2001 aurora 

fully loaded, moonroof, AM/FM/CD, leather, 6-way seats, On-star equipped, 76kmi, taupe, 1-owner, $8200    Cohoes, NY    (518) 458-1993  Aft 5PM

Sounds nice. Maybe I should check into the second-generation Auroras a bit more than I have.

2001 Intrigue 

29kmi, LN, 1 owner, loaded, 25MPH, V6, $8995    Rotterdam, NY    (518) 376-0175    (518) 374-2370

That sounds like a hell of a car. Low, low miles and the price isn't too bad.

1996 LSS

forgot one, thats a bit important to me, might be priced high for a 96 and it doesnt say SC so thats a -

111kmi, V6, fully loaded, maroon, leather int, GC, gd mileage, auto w/center shift, $4000 Chestertown, NY (518) 494-7139

Sounds nice. You're right, though. It's maybe just a little too expensive for a '96. Of course, an owner can be pursuaded to let go of five-hundred bucks.

Edited October 1, 2006 by YellowJacket894