Hi bq93 -
Ah...the eternal question: Why?
Interesting responses here...whether you know it or not, all you guys who participate in these forums are really good guys for doing so! Thanks.
I think most of the answers have been provided. But, I am like you bq93. So, I have a similar question (and my own answers):
Why do GNs sell for more than T-Types like mine?
Check this out: Between 1986 and 1987 only 3,468 Regal T-Types were built vs. 25,705 GNs. So, the T-Type is a much rarer car. Yet, asking and selling prices for GNs are typically several thousand more.
It could be that the black-out color scheme also makes a difference...hey, that "bad boy (girl)" image is worth a lot to some people.
There's more. My car is outfitted like the WE-4 (lighter because it was equipped with aluminum "T" wheels, rear brake drums, full width bumper supports, and had no trunk spoiler). That means, theoretically, the WE-4s and my car are faster (stock form). Yet, my car's market value still seems lower than the GN's.
Interestingly, when I recently showed my car to the sales manager of a local Ford dealership, he thought the car would be worth $17K-$18K cash (not trade-in value). I figured it might be fairly priced at $13-$15K...after all, it has original paint and is a 20 foot car. So, I am encouraged if I ever decide to sell.
My position is that I will carry on a crusade to make this car (the T-Types) worth as much as or more than comparable-condition GNs -- because of their rarity.
Obviously, I think the value of these cars also has a lot to do with educating the ignorant about what a particular turbo Buick has to offer. When I visit car shows, I make this point verbally and in a flyer I made for my car. After all, each one of us customizes (or not) to differentiate what we have.
It is very interesting to talk with lookers because most people do not have a clue about turbo Buicks except for the GN. Hype, and the familiarity bred from so many more street sightings (higher production numbers) keep the GN as king of top-of-mind awareness. However, I think those who are collectors or are in-the-know types will eventually value T-Types as highly as GNs...or higher.
I think anyone buying one of our turbo beasts should buy what looks good and functions well for him. I would have preferred a T-top car because I love cruising with all that exposure. But, I bought what was closest and I liked the differences from a GN. I figure you gotta buy what grabs you AND feels best under your butt, and worry about its value later.
My best regards,
Steve