Talk me out of/into a 450

[august8pm]

As my 451 delivery approaches (date unknown, but soon enough, I'm an 1182), I've been toying with the idea of finding a 450 (if I still can) and buying that instead. I know some of the pros and cons, but I hoped a real owner could advise.

It will be my only car for the foreseeable future and, although I don't put toomany miles on my car (maybe 6k a year), I'd like to take this on road trips, too. And, though I try to learn as much as I can, I'm still a mechanical novice.

Anyone willing to share their knowledge?

Thanks very much.

[rgaus]

We have a dual column list on our website's landing page, august8pm, that compares the various elements of the 450 to the 451. However, our general guidance is to have folks wait for the new 2008's. The folks that want the original design smarts are adamant about it. There is no doubt in their minds. As a result, we try to push all of our inquiries toward the new cars so there will be enough left for the purists. There are some warranty advantages with the older ones due to an extremely liberal warranty company that allows reimbursement of virtually any mechanic that wants to work on them. Helpful in towns distant from Penske dealerships, but certainly not a deal breaker for the new car alternative. We also have parts suppliers and websites to assist in the repairs of the 450s. If you are leaning at all toward the 2008, stick with that decision. Just our opinion. The monetary advantage far outweighs the other reasons for most buyers, but those that do want the original have a zealous attitude toward them.

Ron Gaus, asmartcar.com

[august8pm]

Thanks for the reply. I know your site well, actually Let's say that I was talked out of the 450 by others for "practical" and financial reasons (i.e. it was too expensive)? I was somewhat disappointed to find out that there was even going to be a 451: I wanted the original museum piece. I thought I wouldn't be able to afford, service, or depend it, though. From my recent reading, it looks like I might have been mistaken and/or let unwarranted fears sway my decision.

[rgaus]

It has been our experience that no smart owner ends up being unhappy with his/her purchase, whether the 450 or 451. Different group of people in each category. Just depends upon where the hot button is in the brain of the buyer. Because of the way we sell our smarts, we have had no buyer regrets with any of our customers. To us, that's extremely important, since we list our home address, instead of a business address, on our website. We want people to find us in the future, not to know where we used to have our business. That keeps us honest and treating all of our buyers with equal respect. Mama don't want no crazies out there that aren't completely happy
Ron Gaus, asmartcar.com

[mfoster]

Ron, really happy in Harrisburg PA. Still waiting to order but did get a silver/silver loaded orphan. Have had it for a week. Thanks again for the early on manual for the 450.