New member in Durham, NC

[jazzguitarboy]

Hi, my name's Ben, and I'm in college in Durham and will be taking a job in Raleigh with Cisco starting in January. I've always loved building things, and I've been a member of the Duke Formula SAE racing team for the last three years. I'm looking for a project that will be fun to drive, has parts available, and doesn't cost too much. The Spider looks like a good option.

I've been checking Craigslist on and off, and while I haven't found my car yet, I decided to join the forum to answer any questions I might have prior to purchase.

[rlux4]

Welcome to the forum Ben. I think you've made a good choice with a Spider as a project car. They are fun to drive and relatively easy to work on. Parts are still obtainable from several vendors and fellow enthusiasts. Good luck in your search, don't hesitate to come here with questions when you find a candidate.
Ron

[mdrburchette]

Welcome Ben! It nice to see another North Carolinian in the midst. Good luck in finding your car. We're all ready to help you with our opinions and advice.

[ga.spyder]

Welcome to the forum,Ben.I had similar concerns when I was looking for a sports car.The Fiat has been perfect for me.Low initial costs,inexpensive readily available parts,and easy to work on. Throw in classic good looks and it is a formula for fun.Good luck in your search,and if you find a car out of your area ask someone here if they can look at it.My own search would have been easier if I had known of this resource.
Craig

[kristoj]

Craig summed it up well. These cars have every attribute you are seeking. Just about everything an be fixed with relative ease and usually without costing an arm and a leg. The one thing to look out for is rust -- especially around the cross member and shock supports, which is often terminal.

[80spider]

Hi Ben,

I work for Cisco in RTP and have a couple of Spiders that you're welcome to check out. Look me up and give me a buzz next year after you start.

Jim Stutts

[jazzguitarboy]

Jim, I'll definitely get in touch. I get back in the area the start of January.

BTW, have you heard about TechShop Durham? You can check them out at http://www.techshopdurham.com/. They're scheduled to open up early next year, and apparently they'll have an automotive shop with a lift, CNC milling, and MIG/TIG welding. Definitely looks like a viable option for an apartment dweller like me.

[fiasco]

Welcome Ben. Enjoy the forum.