Okay, I guess I should have given them an extra $5,000 when I found out the car was numbers match. The options were very obvious, AM/FM stereo, air, power steering, power brakes, power windows, tilt, power top, tinted glass, power antenna, 400...all were installed and visible. The car was advertised in a multistate publication, was available for inspection, and was on the market for a couple of months. Apparently "the market" eventually found someone, me, the buyer, who felt the price was appropriate. If some cars get better hype and exposure from auctions, eBay, or online showrooms, that doesn't make them any better or different or more valuable, just possibly more expensive.

And those cars that are fraudulently sold as numbers matching that are not do truly represent the market?

It looks like this posted stirred up things a bit. If I can get a picture of the engine number to match I will send it. From here I will look into restoring this car with original if available or upgrads as needed. Thanks for all the good points.

Harley,

It sounds like you got a good deal on a nice car, and we'd love to see photos. Obviously, none of us want to spend more than we need to in order to buy our 'birds. And there is no doubt that in the past few years the prices on these cars have gone up dramatically. Take your time, enjoy your car, and keep posting!