What would really help would be if we had a data base
of sales prices and of what ins. companies have paid
for totals.  So, if someone, for example, fights hard
like Derek did and establishes a close to accurate FMV
for say a 1990 syncro westy with moderate mileage in
excellent condition($20,000-25,000+ based on what they
are selling for at dealers who specialize in them),
then this would prevent the same ins. co. from later
trying to pay only $9000 on the next claim, despite
knowing full well that is absurd, which is exactly what
they do.  "Gee, you valued Joe Schmoe's 90 with 110k at
$22,500 (see claim no. 123  policy no. 567) and yet you
are only offering me $9,000 for my 91 with 44k?  Surely
there must be a mistake!"  That would be fun!

And the sales prices would really help establish market
value.  They could be cited (with contact & vehicle
info) as the basis for a FMV.  This would help protect
everyone, like insurance against unscrupulous ins.
adjusters.  It would save a lot of agony and time and
would ultimately protect your investment in your
syncro.  But people may not want to share that info, so
it may not be feasible.

> insyncro wrote:
>
> After thinking about this awful scenario, it reminded
> me of a similar insurance nightmare that my father
> experienced with a 911.  Long story made short we
> used the title and the amount of tax paid on the
> vehicle to substantiate the value to the insurance
> company.  I'm not sure what state this happened in
> and we live in NY.  I own a 1991 Syncro Westy in
> excellent condition and have a bill of sale, let me
> know if I can help.
>
> Good luck!
>
> Dylan Friedman
>
> 1991 Westy Syncro GL
> 1991 Syncro L
>
> insyncro@earthlink.net