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AlissaB=> And darn it, I want one. Welcome to the list, you've come to the right place. Which T3 did you see in the paper -- Notchback (sedan), Fastback (hatch) or Squareback (wagon)? Assuming you've browsed the site and learned a little more about them, which style do you like best? => I've never owned a car in my life ... Let alone a vw. The first question to ask yourself when contemplating the purchase of *any* older car: how mechanical are you willing to personally get? Are you good with tools? Do you find mechanical systems interesting or baffling? The thing is, it's difficult to find competent mechanics for older cars in general and the T3s in particular -- VW wrenches often don't understand the little differences. Owners are therefore obliged to close involvement in mechanical issues. => What should I be looking for in a car? A rust-free, straight body will ensure that anything el4Áave to do to the car will be pretty straightforward. The perfect candidate is the car that's been sitting in a dry garage for the ten years since the original owner got too old to drive it anymore. Complete, unrestored, regularly maintained, lightly driven. => Where should I be looking ...? Does your budget include a cross-country trip or two? Most of the remaining US T3s are on the left coast. This list is one of the best sources, with members bird-dogging T3's across the country and around the world. => Should I try to get one with a manual or an automatic transmission? Manual is simpler, cheaper to maintain and more fun to drive. As a late starter, however, it would be a good idea to try a manual-transmission car and see how you take to clutch shifting. => How much should I be willing to pay on a car that won't require an => amazing amount of maintenance ...? The top candidate described above is worth every penny of $4000, but you might find it for anywhere from $500 on up. Decent cars with minor problems can frequently be had for $1500 and less. Steven Ayres, Prescott AZ '66 T3 Ghia ------------------------------------------------------------------- List info at http://www.vwtype3.org/list or mailto:help@vwtype3.org