1957 Smal Mouth Barn [Whoops] garage find,

[Tinkerman]

Just got off the phone with a young man whose father has given him a 1957 TR-3, Small mouth. Dad drove it quite awhile then put it up, about 10 years now. Engine frozen, front end bashed, though he has a useable front apron. Fenders bashed wrong seats, etc. etc. I haven't seen it but suspect that it will require a full restoration. Hasn't been run in about six years. Son is about to graduate from college with an ME degree. He's sure that he will have to move from here to get a decent job. Wants to find it a good home because Dad says just take it to a junk yard!
My question to everyone is what is it worth. anything? Nothing?
I obviously feel that it is worth something and would be willing to buy it if the price is right. But at this point what would be the right price. I really don't want to see it go to the crusher!

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated!

Tinkerman

 

[Russ Austin]

If it's not a complete rust bucket, without seeing it is hard to say. With that said anywhere from $1,500. to $3,500 on the high end.

 

[AweMan]

Being the owner of a 56 Smallmouth, {No rust through on the tub other than one small place in the battery box.} NO WAY would I sell mine for $3500.00. But like mentioned, depends on the condition of the body parts and ........ how badly one desires to own one of these cars. Engine parts are not an issue on these cars. {other than the block, head and crankshaft most of the other engine parts are offered as new or remanufactured} But body parts and trim are EXPENSIVE to replace and rarely will one find O.E.M. parts in good condition at that. I would venture to say that parting the car out, although I hate to see that happen, will bring the most $
Depending on the asking price I may be interested in a purchase.

 

[Banjo]

My suggestion would be that if you can get it for under a grand (and if he's gonna junk it that should be easy) I'd rescue it. and if ya find out it's only good for parts, well I bet you'll still recoupe your money finding that one jigger your other car is missing.
I wish I had a TR2 or TR3 small mouth for parts.

 

[DougF]

Years ago, a friend of mine who is very well versed in side curtain TR's told me that any TR3 is worth $1000.00. This was probably '92. The car I was looking at was in pieces with four excellent quarters, heavy rust in areas, 1-2 extra tannys, and a brand new shift knob. Both husband and wife commented on the knob while explaining the car over the phone. I found it humorous at the time. Probably reasoned in on why I didn't buy it.
So, I would low ball, but figure that for $2,000 you would still be in good shape.
What ballpark are they asking? You will know better on sight.

 

[Tinkerman]

The fellow I talked to is on the whole, clueless on the value of the car, but just feels that he does not want it to go to a junk yard. Won't let that happen even if I have to buy it! I'm going to try to go see it next week and take some pictures.
Tinkerman

 

[billspit]

If he "doesn't want it to go to the junkyard", offer him $500. Go from there.

 

[hilsideser]

10-4 $500 and watch his face. Tell him your'll sweep the garge floor for him after you pull out the car, too...