'95 T-5R - Am I about to make a horrible decision?

Euro_Hobbs · Post by **Euro_Hobbs** » 15 Apr 2015, 12:16

Hey guys,

Just as I'm about to put 1.5k into my decrepit '93 325is w/270k for a clutch and flywheel I have stumbled across a very rare, yellow, T-5R sedan about 15 minutes from my house. It seems to be in great condition and owned by a long time enthusiast. Downside is it has 225k on it. He is asking $3200 or a reasonable offer. Assuming everything checks out and has the service records I believe it does...would I be making a horrible decision in your opinion?

Sommerfeldt · Post by **Sommerfeldt** » 15 Apr 2015, 12:24

Do it. I had a black one a few years ago - got stolen and wrecked, unfortunately - and I still miss it. All the ease of repairs that come with these cars, and all the fun of a track ready, mean looking, awesomely powerful Volvo.
I don't know if you're on metric or imperial, but either way, 225k is nothing to a well maintained Volvo. If you take care of it, you'll have an awesome car for a long time.

- S

Post by **850 LPT** » 15 Apr 2015, 13:00

Sommerfeldt wrote: 225k is nothing to a well maintained Volvo. If you take care of it, you'll have an awesome car for a long time. - S

Agreed

Post by **mecheng** » 15 Apr 2015, 13:28

Do you enjoy working on cars. If NO, don't buy. If yes, consider it. Overall reliable, but lots of little problems to keep them running smoothly.

db130 · Post by **db130** » 15 Apr 2015, 13:52

I've seen the photos from the other forum and it looks like it's in good condition. I'd ask the usual questions like:

1) the last time the timing belt+associated pulleys+tensioner
2) has the PCV system been serviced recently
3) heater core/radiator/ac evaporator

Post by **erikv11** » 15 Apr 2015, 13:55

I have seen that ad too, that car is an excellent example of the T5-R sedan and by all appearances he is just trying to see it go for a decent price to someone who will respect it. The comments here have been spot on about maintenance, this is an old car and will need little repairs, but it is in no way falling apart and will not be on the market for very long for that price. It would be an improvement in so many ways from your 93.

Euro_Hobbs · Post by **Euro_Hobbs** » 15 Apr 2015, 20:05

Well looked at it this evening, and overall it was OK but not without faults. Paint isn't the greatest, has some rust on the trunk, overspray on the front from previous bodywork, needs an axle/reboot, looks like it has some turbo oil line leaks, leaking heater core (smell from vents and slow coolant loss), and no A/C (evap was done a few years ago). Other than that, engine and turbo pull strong, transmission is firm but seems solid, timing belt done at 217k, interior is decent, everything works inside, diligent routine maintenance, newer suspension bits (slight clunk from the front though), newer brakes, no PCV smoke comes with a variety of other parts. I'm so extremely torn it's unbelievable. He had me help him drop off the car at a shop to get the A/C inspected so I'm waiting to hear back about that first. I'm not afraid of working on my own cars, I just don't want a turd. I'll attach some pics soon.

mika · Post by **mika** » 16 Apr 2015, 08:10

I saw this car and it looked better from the exterior pictures. Usual issues for a 95, but the fact it needs h. core, axle, and turbo lines would need to be part of the negotiation of price if you decide to go through (parts and your time cost)

IMO, you can get a non R in much better shape (without your aforementioned issues) for half the asking price of the T5R. Personally, a zippy NA might be the best if you need it for daily driver and quick winter warm up since your in ohio.

If I ever got a T5R, it will only be for novelty/hobby instead of a daily driver. From what I remember, the paint was only single layer, no clear coat. That might explain some of the rust issues if someone did not pamper/wax it/avoid rain/snow

Post by **erikv11** » 16 Apr 2015, 08:21

I'd pay 2500 but not 3200, assuming that is not a rear main seal leak underneath, and that the evap core is OK. I agree with mika, it has more issues than the original posting suggests but they appear to be the typical ones, easy to do but will keep you busy.

Post by **mecheng** » 16 Apr 2015, 10:13

Other than being rare, how is it any better than a 96+ R?