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Do I have any recourse against a private seller after my Porsche 911 was found to have rust problems?

I purchased a classic car privately, based upon the description provided by the seller. Following the purchase, I had the car transferred to a specialist who has indicated that there is severe rust on the floorpan, exhaust, suspension and now the seatbelt anchor (inner wings). In addition, the rear brake drums are seized. In the original advert and correspondence the seller wrote (and I have the evidence):

"Q: Hi, I am interested in your 911. Is there any sign of rust, especially around the sills and door jambs?"

"A: None at all. But you'd be welcome to come and inspect the car before bidding."

He also wrote that "The brakes were recently serviced" and "The car spent much of its early life in Jersey and so the bodywork is in fine condition." Knowing that the adage "cavaet emptor" applies, do you think I have any recourse to the small claims court for contribution toward repairs for misleading information?

Asked on 15 July 2010 by buttonj

Answered by Honest John
I don't think so, because he invited your inspection and you didn't inspect it. But why would a car kept on Jersey be rust free? Jersey is only 9 miles x 5 (I used to write the ads), stuck in the salt-laden air of the English Channel. In a desert a car may remain rust-free, but not on a Channel Island.
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