Ask an expert

I am looking at purchasing a Toyota Vitz 1.1 litre manual which is new to the country. It is getting its warrant and rego done soon. It has a body kit and is currently lowered but they are raising it with new springs. It also has a modified exhaust and a new paint job.

I think they said its K's were about 15,000. I currently own a Toyota Corolla so I am used to small cars.

I am not sure how much they want for it. What price range do you think I might be looking at?

Kristal

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 12 December 2009

A couple of things regarding this vehicle;

By the sounds of it this car will look a lot better than it will perform. You say a small car doesn't bother you but I suspect this car would struggle to pull the skin off a rice pudding as the saying goes.

The body kit is only going to add weight as well. Raising the height of the car may also detract from its looks as a lowering and body kit can often be done as a combined effort to improve a cars appeal.

A new paint job is something that may need further investigation as well.

If you are still keen make sure you take it for a good drive and include some hills and take a passenger with you.

As far as price goes it's hard for me to say. We do have a on-line valuation service which may help you.

Be careful Kristal and do all the necessary checks.