Post by: r4pinto on June 25, 2022, 11:17:46 AM
hatchbacks are 100% out. I don't care if it was flawless I won't pay for one. They aren't my style.Now if someone wants to pay me or give me a free hatchback model that is in excellent condition I'd be a fool lol.
71-73 I'm not a fan of, but would consider a sedan of those years. Don't like the skinny bumpers personally. The sedan would be an exception since my mom had a 73 sedan she loved.
74-78: I would be happy with a sedan, but very happy with a wagon- preferably squire. I love the 77-78 style and can see myself putting the slant nose 77-8 on a 74-76.
79-80: not really a fan of the square nose but something about those wagons speak to me. Again I'd prefer a squire but wouldn't turn away a conventional wagon.
I know what I am getting from my house sale so there is plenty to bank while getting a nice driver Pinto. Doesn't need to be perfect as I enjoy tinkering. Deluxe seats aren't a must but would be nice. I have a pair of fronts from my 80 that I can't sell even at a price of $50 so I will save those to be eventually recovered as necessary.
While it doesn't need to be fully stock I don't want a heavily modded one, nor am I interested in any Pinto with a V8 installed. Prefer a 2.3 4 cylinder automatic but would consider any stock Pinto drivetrain if the car spoke to me.
In the end I feel I should be able to get a nice sedan or wagon for a good price, even if it means a road trip. I want a Pinto. I NEED a Pinto. It just has to be the RIGHT Pinto. One that speaks to me.
I REFUSE to make the mistake I made with the 78 hatch, 80 hatch, and 77 squire rotbox wagon, and in some degree 77 sedan. That one I wish I could have saved. I loved that car to death but it was rustier than I thought when I bought her. I held onto her for years after I saw she was too far gone. Even drove it around the block occasionally because I loved her that much.
If anyone wants to give tips on where to look or how to get it I'm all ears. The only thing I know is I know what I want and based on the criteria above it's achievable.
Post by: dga57 on June 25, 2022, 09:28:30 PM
Dwayne :)
Post by: r4pinto on June 25, 2022, 11:48:19 PM
The more widely you search, the better your prospects. I'm sure the Pinto you want is out there somewhere, but you must be patient and open to a broad search area. Unlike you, my favorite Pinto is the Runabout. In my case, it got VERY specific because I wanted a twin of the one I purchased new in 1974 when I was sixteen years old. My 20+ year search finally unearthed the right car, albeit with a slight compromise. My original had the 2.3 with a 4 spd. manual transmission while the one I eventually purchased has the right engine, but is an automatic. My hope is to someday be able to swap that out for a manual but, at age 65 now, I can't waste twenty more years searching for that! lol I got the right year and model, right color, right color interior, and I take that as a win! The body was basically solid but had a few dings, some rust which was all contained to one panel and therefore remedied by panel replacement, and it needed paint to look really good... got all that taken care of professionally . Just for the record, I found it roughly 3000 miles from home. Oh well! The sad part is that, while searching for the perfect orange '74 Runabout, I purchased two Pintos I really didn't want. Oh, I wanted a Pinto, but a very specific one and these were both poor substitutes for what I truly wanted. The first was a brown '72 sedan 1.6 with a 4 spd. transmission. It was a little rough around the edges but ran great. I purchased it in Maryland and drove it home to Virginia (about 150 miles) on the Interstate without issue. My problem was that even though it felt amazing to be behind the wheel of a Pinto again, there was nothing about the car that really motivated me to involve myself in it. I ultimately sold it for about the same as I paid for it, so it all worked out. I then bought a gorgeous '72 Squire wagon with a 2.0 and automatic in North Carolina and, again, drove it home without issue. I have to admit I did drive this one a bit more because it was so nice it practically looked new, but I never really felt any emotional attachment to it either. I tell you all this to reinforce your statement that it "has to be the RIGHT Pinto". If it's not, you'll lose interest in a hurry. Don't compromise... you'll regret it! Happy Pinto hunting!!!For sure. I'm actually looking at possibly a 1980 squire or a 1979 wagon. Both keep getting my interest and worth looking deeper at. The 79 has a v6, ac, and deluxe interior.
Dwayne :)
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Post by: dga57 on June 26, 2022, 05:35:48 AM
For sure. I'm actually looking at possibly a 1980 squire or a 1979 wagon. Both keep getting my interest and worth looking deeper at. The 79 has a v6, ac, and deluxe interior. (https://emoji.tapatalk-cdn.com/emoji7.png)
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Well, I'm wishing the very best for you, whatever you decide! Have a great rest of the weekend!
Dwayne :)
Post by: r4pinto on June 26, 2022, 12:35:47 PM
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Post by: r4pinto on June 26, 2022, 01:13:00 PM
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Post by: dga57 on June 27, 2022, 11:55:58 AM
Dwayne :)
Post by: r4pinto on June 27, 2022, 06:58:59 PM
I get suspension may need rebuilt (I have full suspension kit in the garage). Color combinations are important but can be changed. I don't like brown but get a car with a good, solid base and it can be repainted. The 80 I bought too quickly and did not do research first. the 77 I wagon I wanted and fell in love with my parents old wagon. The 77 sedan I passed on and then went back to, thinking it was fixable without looking it over.
Live and learn. Both are nice looking cars but I'd want to see pictures underneath before making the drive. I'd want to have some idea of mechanical condition before going without a tow unit. Time will tell.
Post by: dga57 on June 28, 2022, 11:01:08 AM
Dwayne :)
Post by: r4pinto on June 28, 2022, 11:53:16 AM
That's the idea: do your homework! Go into it with that attitude and you'll find a winner!For sure! And I can always customize it to make it my own. Having a solid base is more important since things can be swapped. I can make it look like a 77-8. I have the knowledge and parts. Having a good base is more important since structural repairs cost more money and ability.
Dwayne :)
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Post by: dga57 on June 30, 2022, 11:31:50 PM
For sure! And I can always customize it to make it my own. Having a solid base is more important since things can be swapped. I can make it look like a 77-8. I have the knowledge and parts. Having a good base is more important since structural repairs cost more money and ability.
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Absolutely!!! :)
Post by: r4pinto on July 03, 2022, 10:46:17 AM
He is a contractor by trade and when he doesn't work he doesn't get a check. Well he went on vacation. While funds were banked they are concerned about the drop in monthly pay due to the vacation. So back to underwriting it went. I'm now in a holding patter, which prevents me from getting a Pinto.
The ones I've had interest in will be there or they won't. If it's meant to be it will be. I'm at a stand still for packing and moving since there's nothing else I can do.
Post by: dga57 on July 03, 2022, 12:31:55 PM
Dwayne :)
Post by: r4pinto on July 03, 2022, 01:29:36 PM
Underwriters have delayed many a mortgage... it's what they do best! Be patient, it will all work out.Yep my agent said this happens with big banks as opposed to mortgage companies. They don't see the whole picture which is what happened. The cash is there but the monthly revenue dropped so they are freaking out. I'm putting my confidence in my agent since he is good at his job. All I can do.
Dwayne :)
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Post by: Dtmix on July 09, 2022, 02:10:40 PM
Happy Motoring (errmm, shall I say Happy Banking?)
Dan
Post by: r4pinto on July 16, 2022, 09:05:39 AM
My best friend is in the business, and I could ask him to grease the wheels if his company is handling the underwriting…may I ask what company are you dealing with? No promises…but worth a try? The longer you are without a Pinto, the worse a withdrawal you’ll be experiencing!Appreciate the offer. Unfortunately they backed out and it's now back on the market. The buyer broke cardinal rule #1. Don't do anything that will cause a change in your financial status. He worked less and pat statements showed less income.
Happy Motoring (errmm, shall I say Happy Banking?)
Dan
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Post by: r4pinto on August 07, 2022, 07:49:10 AM
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Post by: dga57 on August 07, 2022, 12:05:46 PM
Dwayne :)
Post by: caravan3921 on August 07, 2022, 09:47:25 PM
Cheering you on to the finish line.
The wait will be worth it.
The desire accomplished will be sweet to the soul!
Post by: r4pinto on August 08, 2022, 07:09:24 AM
At least with the current real estate market being what it is, it doesn't take long to overcome a setback. It will be a done deal before you know it!!!It's back in contract, although the market isn't as good as it was due to rising rates. The offer I took was 19k less than the original offer, that was probably overinflated to begin with. I still look to make a good profit and be able to get me that wagon.
Dwayne :)
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Post by: caravan3921 on August 08, 2022, 08:50:05 AM
Post by: r4pinto on August 09, 2022, 10:24:58 AM
have you seen the 2 wagons on ebay?I have but I need to have the house sold before even bidding on anything. And the prices on ebay are a little higher than I'd prefer to pay. First things first... house be gone lol.
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Post by: caravan3921 on August 09, 2022, 10:26:22 PM
But I hear 'ya: first things first!
Post by: r4pinto on August 10, 2022, 12:29:43 PM
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Post by: caravan3921 on August 10, 2022, 01:49:38 PM
Post by: r4pinto on August 12, 2022, 08:02:48 PM
We share your passion for Pintos!!Which is one of the things I enjoy about this site.
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Post by: r4pinto on August 20, 2022, 08:21:23 AM
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Post by: caravan3921 on August 20, 2022, 09:52:57 PM
Post by: caravan3921 on August 20, 2022, 09:53:50 PM
Cheering you on to the finish line!
Post by: caravan3921 on August 20, 2022, 10:03:15 PM
(https://www.fordpinto.com/classifieds/thumb_17242_17_08_22_6_27_11.jpeg)
Post by: dga57 on August 20, 2022, 10:11:33 PM
in the meantime, I covet this one, looks like my first one I bought at 21 years of age!
(https://www.fordpinto.com/classifieds/thumb_17242_17_08_22_6_27_11.jpeg)
There's nothing quite like that first one, is there? I bought my first Pinto brand new when I was sixteen and later spent more than twenty years trying to find one that matched it (the actual car was demolished in a collision by its second owner). The sensation I experienced when I finally found and bought it is indescribable!
Dwayne :)
Post by: r4pinto on August 21, 2022, 12:16:01 PM
is this one still available, that you showed us back in June?That one I think sold. The ad is gone. There are a couple others though
Cheering you on to the finish line!
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Post by: caravan3921 on September 21, 2022, 09:57:05 AM
Post by: r4pinto on May 03, 2023, 11:19:12 AM
any updates on the house sale and buying a pinto?It's been a while. Just logged in after time off here. Unfortunately I needed to buy another car to drive due to the theft of my 2016 Durango. It was recovered, but insurance would only cover 30 days. Since I needed to get to and from work ad well as get the kids from school I bought an 05 Chrysler Town and Country. My days of owning a Pinto are probably over. There is no time or money for them any more.
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Post by: caravan3921 on May 03, 2023, 02:55:05 PM
Obviously your priorities right now are kids and work, however....nev er say never.
A Pinto could still be in your future, someday, somehow.
Warm regards!
Post by: r4pinto on May 05, 2023, 07:12:33 AM
Thanks for the update, sorry to hear of theft. Did your house sell?House sold last August. I know what you're saying but needed the cash to get the car. That money went towards the van, and down payment on a new house. Is what it is.
Obviously your priorities right now are kids and work, however....nev er say never.
A Pinto could still be in your future, someday, somehow.
Warm regards!
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Post by: dga57 on May 06, 2023, 11:25:05 AM
Dwayne :)
Post by: r4pinto on May 19, 2023, 09:48:19 AM
Sorry to hear about the setback Matt, but you're still young... it's amazing what time can do. In the meantime, enjoy the family and the new house. Good to hear from you!Taking it all one day at a time. I wasn't thrilled about buying the van to replace my daily, especially when a $1500 van needs work to be good. More than likely better than a Pinto wagon, which would have seat limitations and possibly mechanical limitations as well. Not a bad car, but not great. Helped us move without a moving truck lol. (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230519/059cc1a54f7ec2dc9147e8b77a3b6aa0.jpg)
Dwayne :)
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Post by: dga57 on May 21, 2023, 06:25:32 AM
Taking it all one day at a time. I wasn't thrilled about buying the van to replace my daily, especially when a $1500 van needs work to be good. More than likely better than a Pinto wagon, which would have seat limitations and possibly mechanical limitations as well. Not a bad car, but not great. Helped us move without a moving truck lol. (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230519/059cc1a54f7ec2dc9147e8b77a3b6aa0.jpg)
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I have a dear friend (single mom with a low-income job) who's looking for a vehicle in that price range... they aren't easy to come by! In the meantime, I loaned her my 2020 Ram Limited pickup and she's been driving that for six months now. Reliable transportation is such an important thing, and all too often people find themselves struggling to find it. Obviously, she can't keep my truck forever, but it has certainly been a boost for her until she finds something she can afford.
Dwayne :)
Post by: r4pinto on May 21, 2023, 07:29:11 AM
I have a dear friend (single mom with a low-income job) who's looking for a vehicle in that price range... they aren't easy to come by! In the meantime, I loaned her my 2020 Ram Limited pickup and she's been driving that for six months now. Reliable transportation is such an important thing, and all too often people find themselves struggling to find it. Obviously, she can't keep my truck forever, but it has certainly been a boost for her until she finds something she can afford.What's bad is a $1500 vehicle still needs a LOT of work to be a good, reliable vehicle. After putting a couple thousand in it the van gets me around safely. Is what it is.
Dwayne :)
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Post by: dga57 on May 27, 2023, 04:54:02 AM
What's bad is a $1500 vehicle still needs a LOT of work to be a good, reliable vehicle. After putting a couple thousand in it the van gets me around safely. Is what it is.
Absolutely!
Post by: Wittsend on May 27, 2023, 12:19:18 PM
I then paid $1,900 gross ($900 net with the gross polluter rebate) for a 2000 Mazda Protege (image attached). I still have that car 12 years later and it only has 142,000 miles. Pre-Pandemic I was driving about 4,000 miles a year. Now I drive about 500 miles a year. So, I may have this car a l-o-n-g time. 18-1/2 years (and counting) for $900. What is that, two or three new car payments for the average person? I fund my old car hobby by not spending on daily drivers. :)
Post by: rob289c on May 27, 2023, 07:05:16 PM
Post by: Wittsend on May 28, 2023, 12:17:53 PM