Salvage Cars at Online Auctions: Eliminating 4 of the Common Misconceptions

Thousands of US citizens purchase cars from salvage auctions every year to suffice their traveling needs. In fact, salvage auctions have an exhaustive collection of skis, dirt bikes to industrial equipment available at pocket-friendly prices. However, there are too many misconceptions about the vehicles you get in salvage car auctions, which often stops buyers from even considering this platform, forget about securing a cheap deal. The blog debunks four common misconceptions related to salvage cars available at online auctions. Let’s begin. 

1. You Cannot Restore a Salvage Vehicle
Although a salvage car is usually a vehicle that has lost 70 percent of its market value, it can still hold value for many buyers. Moreover, not all salvage cars suffer the same damages, which means many of the cars have only minimal damages which can be restored before they hit the road. Flood damaged cars, for instance, may have more damages, and require a thorough inspection. However, some cars may have minimal damages, besides repossessed cars for sale that can be as good as new. 

2. Online Auctions are not for Beginners
Online salvage car auctions usually are a breeze to participate. In fact, organizers and owners of these websites understand a simple bidding process will attract more bidders to the online auction site. Many websites, in fact, provide shipping services, so that bidders don’t need to take the pain of arranging the transportation of the vehicle. The auction sites also provide detailed information such as the make and model about the selected vehicle. 

3. You Don’t Get What You See
You can personally inspect your chosen vehicle before you decide to bid on it online. You might have to bear a nominal fee for visiting the salvage yard to ensure that you receive what you see. Many websites organizing salvage auctions advice you to inspect the vehicle in advance so that you can secure a deal that is worth your time and money. You can also take the help of a professional mechanic - like an ASE certified one - if you don’t have enough knowledge about cars. 

4. Online Auctions only Offer Totaled Cars
Online auction sites offer everything from salvage, repossessed to clean title cars for sale. In fact, as bank repo cars are seized from customers delinquent with their payments, they are often in good condition, sometimes almost as good as a new car. As far as salvage cars are concerned, they do have damages, but many of them are repairable. You can even check the vehicle history, including the VIN number of the cars before you buying them. 

The Final Word
The “right” research can always help you find a great deal at online auction sites that offer salvage cars. Ensure that you bid through a credible website, as there are many websites that don’t really have the entire means to service the needs of bidders. It goes without saying that you’d want to look for a website with a huge inventory and that offers shipping services.

Pontiac Solstice: A Glance at the GM’s Gem

The Pontiacs were some of the fascinating entries in the world of sports cars, and the Solstice has taken auto enthusiasm to another level. Designed by Vicki Vlachakis, this car has already secured its place in the ‘Automotive Hall of Fame,’ and is perceived as a modern collectible. As far as buyers are concerned, this four-wheeled wonder is worth your money, whether you buy it from a salvage auto auction portal or a conventional dealer. It’s a fun-to-drive car, with stunning looks, and a long list of standard features that tick all the boxes of desirability quotient. Here’s what you need to learn about the vehicle if you are planning own it. 

Versions

GXP (2007 - 2009)

General Motors introduced the GXP version of the Solstice at the Los Angeles Auto Show in January of 2006. It boasted a new 2.0 L (121.9 cu in) I4 Ecotec engine - over the base model - with a dual-scroll turbocharger that produced 260 hp (193 kW) and 260 lb·ft (353 N·m). It was the first instance when an American auto manufacturer had installed a gasoline direct injection engine in their car. The GXP Pontiac can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) under 5.5 seconds. 

Solstice Coupe (2008)

Solstice Coupe came up in 2008, a year later after GM introduced the first GXP version. The targa coupe version was launched at the New York Auto Show. This car features the same engine configurations that are found in the GXP. One of the pioneering features, which makes the overall package intriguing is that you can remove the hard roof, although it won’t fit in the trunk. Only a total of 1,266 Solstice Coupes were produced in total; however, you can own a rare roadster, if you are lucky. Perhaps, a salvage auto auction portal will be the right place to search, if you don’t find it elsewhere. 

Standard Features

The makers of the Pontiac Solstice loaded it with a wide range of features to attract buyers. Depending on the model type, you may find everything from cruise control, power windows, a Monsoon audio system, leather seats, and, of course, keyless entry. The Solstices launched in 2009 were also equipped with tire-pressure monitors, besides a new MP3-compatible AM/FM/CD radio with an auxiliary jack.

Concepts

Weekend Club Racer Concept

Can you recall the fictional character Jazz from the 2007 hit movie Transformers? Well, that character is none other than the Pontiac’s Club Racer Solstice. This speedster emulates the Dodge Viper to a large extent, especially its removable hardtop. It boasts an aggressive body, an unusually large spoiler, and an engine that delivers 325 hp. 

Solstice GXP Coupe Concept

The Solstice GXP Coupe was first introduced at the 2008 SEMA auto show. Initially launched in metallic orange, it offers 290 hp (216 KW). Like the Club Racer, it has the cat-back exhaust system, besides GM Performance Parts and race-ready suspension kit. 

SD-290 Race Concept

The SD-290 is a racer with rare looks that comes with a single seat option. Featuring a 290 hp engine, this retro racer weighs less than the above Solstice versions, thanks to the elimination of the hardware, HVAC system, and door glass/hardware, and convertible top.

Conclusion 

The Pontiac Solstice came out in several interesting versions -- coupe and convertibles. While most of them were purely designed for racing, others like the SD-290 caught attention due to their awe-inspiring looks. All in all, the Solstice, despite being discontinued is a fun ride that you’d love to display in your home’s front yard. To buy these cars, you can either try your luck at pre-owned dealerships or salvage auto auctions that offer bank repo and salvage cars for sale with low carbon footprints.