4cly fox convertible $1000, worth it?

[bmxmon]

Hey, i just stumbled upon a fox convertible while out with my friend who was looking for a vehicle. This fox was in the back, a local trade in. It would need a new top, front right fender, (probably left too) and maybe the lower rear quarters. The rear quarters showed some rust, but I'm not sure if it was all the way through or just surface. The dealers said it runs and drives well, just doesnt look the best. I believe the interior was all right, except maybe some thing missing over part of the spot where the convertible top goes??? Not sure if something was missing or thats just how they are. My plans would be to leave the 4cly in there for awhile probably until done with college or at least my 65 stang. It would be the commuter. Thanks for any advice. I live in northern Minnesota, so you gotta kinda take that into account.

[RBatson]

That's a hard decision to make for someone else. I can tell you a new top will cost you atleast $800 and probably more like $1200. To me, its not worth it but it may be to you. I personally don't like 4 cyl mustangs to start with and converting over to a 302 will cost you a bit. You may be able to fine a decent 5.0 vert for less than what the 4 cyl conversion would cost.

[Dave_mustang_50]

I had my top replaced for $600. Alot of people will buy a 4 cyl for around 2k that has been really taken care of and drop in a 351. With the 2.3L, Those cars get good mileage, but are dogs around town.

[RBatson]

Do tell! That's one heck of a deal! I had it done for $800 many years ago and that was a favor from a customer of mine. I called around and everyone else wanted $1200-2000. Who did that for you? I will definitely have them do mine for me, its about time for a new top. The top and back glass cost over $400, last I checked. If you can give me a name and number I'd greatly appreciate it.

As far as dropping in a 351.. you need to replace the rear end, upgrade the cooling system, exhaust, transmission, suspension, change motor mounts, computer and wiring harnass(if you leave it fi).. add the price of the motor and it all adds up to more than its worth to me. Now a 302 to 351 is a different story, that is conceivable to me.

[bmxmon]

Well i was thinking that I could replace the top myself, and looking around a kit for it was around $380 i think at 5.0resto. Yes, i would adventually drop in a 302 or 351, but probably not until I am done with college (just finished high school) What i really see in it is cheap transportation that I can make cool looking. I just put a 302 in my 65 stang, so I am having fun with that. The painting really isnt much of a concern, since i can do all the work on that, and may even try spraying. Also swapping from the 6cly to 8cly would suck, but its the same thing I'm going through with my 65. As far as sticking with fuel injection.....I really dont know. I lean toward carbs, but it would be fun to learn all about efi. Should I just offer him something low as see if he goes for it, like $750??? Im not real good with the hageling thing though. Maybe I should go and take some pics and then see what you guys think. People might think its a bit shady though going into a dealers back lot when they are closed, this memorial weekend and all...

[fiveohpatrol]

save your money. You can easily find a 5.0 one for the same price in the same or better condition.

[bmxmon]

alright, i think i will pass on it then. I have been thinking than instead of having two half ass projects, I will just concentrate on my 65, which i think that the clutch is already going out on.....Maybe i will get a 94 or 95 stang after college, since they will be even cheaper and have some of the upgrades already done that I would have to do to a fox. (4 wheel disc brakes, 5 lugs) Thanks, I wasnt sure if it was a deal that I should jump on or not, and now i know!!

[Dave_mustang_50]

I had mine replaced by Century top shop in Clearwater Fl. Conv. tops can cover a broad price range from basic to cloth. I had a new top put on my wifes 68 conv. Beetle a year ago from a closer shop called Walleys Upholstry for just under 600. Both are nice with no problems.
I can get you the Phone number to either shop if you would like

[Crazy Horse GT]

Originally Posted by fiveohpatrol

save your money. You can easily find a 5.0 one for the same price in the same or better condition.

i agree, my nieghbor bought a rust free 93 lx 4 banger, paint intact, just needs a head light, it's just cracked, it's a hardtop, but price- 400.00, i offered him 650.00, lol, but i have a mildly built 302 & top loader 4 - speed to drop in.