I have been saved much purchase aggravation simply by doing a search that includes the "(internet seller's business name)" and "reviews" in the Google search box. The sellers who are $hundreds below usually have bait & switch reviews. Good luck with your return, if that's the route you're taking.
I would not crop. The two cars draw you into the beautiful picture, i.e., are the cars traveling together? is there another yet to come over the hill? what is on the other side of the hill facing the sunset?. etc.
I have a feeling your #1 picture is going to cost me money as I am now researching who has the best price on the AF-S Micro 60MM. Thanks for sharing the beautiful pics.