How crazy is a $600 SX4?

While surfing Craigslist, I came across a $600 2008 Suzuki SX4. The body looked to be in good shape, but it was listed with a blown motor. I mean, $600 for a clean body is a bargain right? I looked up replacement engines and I can grab a decent example for $600 - $1200 depending on size and mileage. That's a small, AWD, 5-speed car for $1000. With a kid who is driving in less than 12 months, the wheels started turning. But within a day, the ad was gone.

Did I avoid a massive mistake, or did I miss out on a bargain? (Yes, I can swap an engine so that wasn't an issue)

Likely didn't need an engine. Those are timing chains and when they don't change the oil they stretch and snap. IIRC, the J20's were not interference engines so re-timing and replacin hte chaing for under $100 would be soup.

If I had the time and skills to do the repair, I'd jump all over it. As in right freakin' now.

The car was sold in a matter of hours. Someone else knew more about it than I did.

Someone got a great deal.

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Always wanted to try out one of those sorry you didn't get it