Lustine Dodge of Woodbridge Virginia advertised a used Mazda Miata for $13,383 on Autotrader. This price was within $100 of the Edmunds price for an identical car in 'clean' condition from a dealer. Sounds reasonable right? So I made an appointment and drove there from Frederick, MD.
After test driving the car I asked for a work up of the vehicle cost. I told the dealer that would not be financing the car. Added to the price was a $995 'restoration fee' and a $399 processing fee. They were not willing to sell the car for the advertised price.
I was told by the dealer that they add a $2000 restoration fee to the price of high line cars but just $1000 to the price of cars like the Mazda.
Interestingly, the car actually was in need of restoration. The carpet was worn through, the driver's seat was noticeably scratched, 3/4 of the wheels had curb rash, there were several scratches in the finish, etc.
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