I am about to go and have a closer look on a 1989 caprice classic that is for sale. The car have been driven in eastern Europe since new and had two owners. It had been in the possession of the current owner for the lat 24 years and had covered 189000 kilometres in total.



My question is what should i look out for in reference to body work, frame, suspension, engine and transition when inspecting the car.
From the experience of the users of this forum what are the common problems with those cars when they get over 30 years mark.
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All the suggestions, tips and guidelines will be much appreciated.

 

Rust, especially on the frame. Depending on the maintenance front end ball joints, tie rod, and shocks. You should test drive it. Your car equates to 117k miles which is what we here for the most are used to dealing with. That said isn't much, when drive it, check that the transmission isn't slipping. I'd also general look over for any leaks, check ALL fluid levels that will tell you how well it has been maintaned. The fluids should be clean. You are buying a 30+ year old car, with that these are fairly stable good cars.

 

That is great. Thank you for sharing the knowledge and the experience. I will post later what was the outcome from the viewing.