I do this alot as it allows you to chose the spec you want and at the best price combo. Who would say no to £1,000 for a days work (effectively)?
My current car- Drove my PX from Manchester to Bridport near Bournemouth.
Basically did alot of phone calls and emails with pics etc to ensure the deal was 99.9% and I was sure before setting off.
My PX (previous buy)- got a one way first class train ticket from Manchester to Ayr for £57 (first class!).
I’d echo about Arnold Clark though- from experience of viewing cars with them in multiple franchises they’ll tell you what you want to hear, assure you and then hope they can sweep you through the process/you’ll relent as you’ve travelled a fair way when you get there.
Only once as a long distance sale backfired- private sale. Seller completely lied about the condition of the car. I jumped straight in the hire car and drove home. I think he was hoping I’d knock a couple of hundred off and just take it (HG issue spotted).