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Originally Posted by 93Vette
2. Are they reliable? 3.Are they easy to upgrade on HP?
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These two questions depend more on the owner's abilities. They can be made to be very reliable, but typically they're not found in very good condition due the the expense of parts and service.
The main reason for upgrades being difficult or expensive is again typically due to poor upkeep, age and the rarity of these cars.
Two cases for consideration: In front of my apartment are two '88 MKIII's, one's an N/A with about $7000 in it, the other a turbo model with about half as much money in it. The Turbo was obviously well maintained, has had what problems there were addressed and is currently putting down well over 400HP to the wheels (hasn't been to the dyno yet, I'm still tuning it). I'm really not 100% sure how much power the Turbo one is putting down, it'll hit 120MPH on a highway on ramp (whoops). The N/A on the other hand still needs a LOT of work and parts. It's going to cost about another $4000 to get it where I want it (not including body work).
Another big thing is whether you'll be doing the work or having a shop do it. If you're planning on having the work done at a shop keep looking until you've found one that's had a decent amount of experience with these cars and make sure your pockets are deeeep. I've met a bunch of Toyota tech's who've never even sat in one before and certified or not I wouldn't let one of them touch my car. Also, if you're having a shop do all the work take your time and find a MKIII that is in EXCELLENT condition! It'll save you a fortune.
If you plan on doing the work yourself, find a VERY good doctor (and by good I mean BAD). Get him to write out prescriptions for pain killers and sedatives in advance... for the first year, you're going to want a lot of both.
