Has anyone ever bought a car off BAT? Not just a Corvette, but any car? I’ve been looking for a British sports car and as I study the ads and pictures carefully, I’ll tell you, it looks like most of the cars are rattle can restorations from people looking for a quick flip. But what really bothers me is that the descriptions that are obviously finalized and edited by BAT are not accurate and I would say often misleading. They will point out seemingly minor flaws like a minor scratch in the paint as if to imply that is one of the more serious flaws, and then you blow up the photo and see that it was quickly painted over chips, fisheyes and probably rust. I know sellers can be very dishonest, but it feels like BAT enables this type of dishonesty with their creative editing.

 

I haven't bought anything off BAT, but have sold on it. It's just like any other way of buying a car sight unseen. Sometimes you win, others you lose. When I sell on there, I post over 200 pics and multiple videos, and always interact with the commenter's. I haven't had a bad transaction yet.

If it's a vehicle you're seriously interested in, I suggest getting in contact with the seller and asking whatever questions you have. Use your best judgment on the answers you receive. It's really all you can do, unless you're able to see the car in person.

 

I disagree almost entirely with your assessment. I have both bought and sold a car there. If you're the seller they assign a person to you to create the summary of your vehicle. BAT doesn't ever get to inspect your car so they carefully couch what the seller tells them, using words like 'alleged to have' or 'the seller states that'. A careful read gives some clues that need to be followed up. I would say BAT strives to keep their description third party neutral. A lot of it is just cut and paste for what are that particular car's features, e.g. 'four speed manual transmission'.

As to 'often misleading' I wouldn't say that is BAT's fault, nor is it in their best interest to mislead. It is however in their interest to make a sale as that is where they make their money. What I found is that they are hard nosed about where the seller should set as a reserve. On the other hand they have a pretty good idea of what the market for each vehicle really is.

You're generally able to pursue questionable claims if the seller participates in the discussion. Many times in the dialog there are either motivated buyers or interested parties that will bring up concerns and issues. If you can't find a responsive seller, then yes you should pass. The seller may sometimes post additional pictures if requested. Late in the sale the seller may include some videos to keep the interest up. Don't show all your cards at the beginning, so to speak.

I do follow BAT but generally only interesting halo cars, usually American so I can't much agree or disagree with what you say about British cars and rattle can restorations.

 

There is no way in heck you can ever buy a British sports car on line, anywhere, any time. You might as well take your cash and light a cigar with it. I was a Triumph guy for many years, TR-6's, Every single one has electrical issues along with some sort of rust and sellers are notorious for stating "half-truths"... Last one I looked at was a beauty, Green, ran and drove OK, a couple "burned out" bulbs-(yeah right-Lucas, prince of darkness), he stated no rust, no bondo, owner had to sell as he had stage 4 Cancer... So I took out my electronic paint gauge and found bondo in all the right/wrong places... The guy just shrugged and went back in his house...probably stuck someone with it... Don't know about BAT but I do know Triumphs and MGs.... Even more than corvettes they are a work in progress, for life..

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I have sold one truck and bought a car after a reserve not met auction. Both worked out well for me, but the purchase was inspected in person before handing over cash. It was overly presented, but I suspect that is how most transactions are. Very rare to have a a seller highlight every deficiency. I think the community discussion on there are pretty valuable inputs to a purchase decision so it's better than being completely on your own.

 

While this post is reasonably active, does anybody have an opinion on "No Reserve"?

I've got two vehicles I want to get rid of. I just want them gone so I can get something new.

 

Go with no reserve. Make your presentation as good as can be and you will do fine. The market is not as strong today as it was a year ago, but you will get the market price. Be active on the site during the auction.

What are you selling?

 

I've got a nice 2013 F150 Crew Cab and a not-as-nice but low mileage 1999 Yukon. Thinking about a 2025 Yukon for comfortable trips.

Good thing about no-reserve is you know it's going to be gone. I think "no reserve" may attract bargain hunters.

 

They are pretty selective in what they put up on their site. Those may or may not fit - just a heads up.

 

Gentlemen don't drive at night

 

My Land Cruiser went live on Sunday

https://bringatrailer.com/listing/19...ser-fzj80-268/

I've tried my best to be as transparent as possible and pointing out any and all flaws.

Pretty sure I'll have the record for most videos too lol (big playlist)