I've got my eye on a Manx locally that's for sale for $4500.  It's what I would call in good shape looks-wise, no obvious cracks etc in the body, a bimini top, seats with no rips, just fairly plain and clean with good tread on the tires and typical chromes.  Does this sound like a good price?  Haven't actually talked to the owner so I can't be sure if it's a real Manx or some other knock-off.  

I plan on taking it to a local mechanic to have it checked out.  On the Manx board there were few for sale and all over $4000.

Just tapping into the local knowledge base here.

Bought it.

Congrats!

I've always wanted one but never made the leap...

That's neat, lawn jockey, but I don't think it's a true Manx. IIRC, the side sills on a Manx weren't that low.

I still have the original sales brochures around here someplace if you need further information. I was going to order one new back in the day, but I never did. My plans called for the Crown Corvair engine adaptor plate, but I ended up with a Boss Mustang instead. (in fact, I still have a lot of Corvair engine parts lying around)

Nice purchase! I'd say you could easily get your money out of it at any time.

Quoted: That's neat, lawn jockey, but I don't think it's a true Manx. IIRC, the side sills on a Manx weren't that low. I still have the original sales brochures around here someplace if you need further information. I was going to order one new back in the day, but I never did. My plans called for the Crown Corvair engine adaptor plate, but I ended up with a Boss Mustang instead. (in fact, I still have a lot of Corvair engine parts lying around) Nice purchase! I'd say you could easily get your money out of it at any time.

You're right, it's not a true Manx.  I just put that name up for it's recognition value.  Not sure what brand of body it is.  It was built in 99.  I used to hang around Peppertree Automotive in Costa Mesa when some friends had their VWs worked on there.  That was Roger Meyers shop when he was working on the Manx.

I suggest you verify the age of the chassis and engine.  Is is double-jointed axles or the old swing axles?  I've seen a lot of buggies built from really ancient parts.  Also, check the welds where the floor pan was cut for shortening and welded back together.