Awesome! I want one. But these do not appear to be dual control and according to Wikipedia the empty weight is 14,000 lbs so this means it requires a type rating to fly it. How do you get a type rating on an F-104 when there are no dual control aircraft flying? And I would bet there aren't any category (5 or 6?) simulators for this aircraft.
My mistake, when I zoomed in on a pick of the expensive one it is a dual seat. I guess you just need to find an CFI with 104 type rating.
The spendy one in Arizona has been owned by the same owner (Mark Shermann) for many years (saw a TV report on him way back in the 80s I think). The ad says nothing about being currently airworthy so I would guess it is out of annual (who does annuals on F-104s these days?). Years ago the availability of tires was a big issue since they have a very limited number of take-offs and landings before they MUST be replaced. No sources for these and it cost (back then) over $70,000 just to start up the manufacturing line for these super special high pressure tires.
Also, another big issue was the engine sucking up dirt and/or sand off the runway knicking the turbine blades during take-off. It was common practice during the operational life of the F-104 to sweep the runway prior to take-off.
Dan