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Is it the GS1000G (shaft drive), or one of the "E" models (chain-drive)?

What year is it? There are both 8-valve and 16-valve versions of that engine, so knowing the year and specific model will help to determine which one you're looking at; photos would be even better...

How many miles on it? What general condition is it in? Any mods done to it (oil cooler, fairing, luggage...)? How far is it from where you are now? The shipping expenses could make this a deal-breaker...

Provide more details, and check out this link:

http://www.thegsresources.com/

You'll be amazed at the information you can find there...

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Too old(!) unless you're interested in doing restoration work.  I mean, take a cue from the previous owner who had his own grand vision but lost interest in the project after letting it sit two years. 

BTW, the working carbs don't come with bike #2.

Definetly stick with newer bikes if your into things that function properly.

I'd probably pass on both, unless you're a damn good mechanic, or a glutton for punishment who enjoys bleeding money. You'd have lots of issues to contend with, including carb work, a leaking gas tank, paperwork (title), and the exhaust on the second one (the 1980 GS/E) looks bizarre; you might want to heed the advice others have posted and look for something newer.

OTOH, if you have the time, energy, and financial resources, either one would probably be a good long-term project, something to wrestle with next winter... That 85 MPH speedo on the '80 model would have to go; you might be able to find the 140 MPH speedo from an earlier GS750 model ('77 - '79), but be prepared to pay through the nose...

Don't overlook the notorious problems with the regulator / rectifier on those old GS models... You can read all about it on GSResources.com. Either one would require a serious commitment of time and cash, but again, if you have time to kill, money to burn, and some good wrenching skills...