They must not have a title for it, and therefore they can not sell it as a complete vehicle. While I understand the desire not to see it cut up, it may be real hard to get proper paperwork for it.

Buy the barn doors and rear fenders off of it ASAP.

Then ask them if they can sell it at an auction like would happen with an abandoned car. I don't know if that would work in CA but in Washington that might be a way to get it sold with paper. Just make sure you show up at the auction with enough money!

1955 1st GMC Suburban | 1954 GMC 250 trailer puller project | 1954 GMC 250 Hydra-Matic | 1954 Chevy 3100 . 1947 Chevy COE | and more...
It's true. I really don't do anything but browse the Internet looking for trouble...