Need help with purchase - BMW Forum

mikes94318i · 04-21-2009, 08:08 PM

Hello! I'm new to bimmerwerkz and I figured if anyone could give me some suggestions I thought it would be here. I have someone who has a 1997 BMW 318is with 160K mileage. The body/interior are in great condition, however the car needs a new head gasket. She's wants to sell it and I'm very interested in buying the vehicle and putting the money into the car however my question is, how much should I pay for the car itself? Car obviously not in running condition, however I see potential. I'm here in Fred. Va. So any thoughts or suggestions would be appreciated.

johnnyBgood · 04-21-2009, 08:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mikes94318i

Hello! I'm new to bimmerwerkz and I figured if anyone could give me some suggestions I thought it would be here. I have someone who has a 1997 BMW 318is with 160K mileage. The body/interior are in great condition, however the car needs a new head gasket. She's wants to sell it and I'm very interested in buying the vehicle and putting the money into the car however my question is, how much should I pay for the car itself? Car obviously not in running condition, however I see potential. I'm here in Fred. Va. So any thoughts or suggestions would be appreciated.

What is she asking for the car? I would say this car in good running condition is worth about $4000, so you should expect to pay at least $1500 & up to $2000 for the head gasket repair......so maybe offer her $1500. This is just a estimate....you can be a better judge of it.

johnny,

german-speed-demon · 04-21-2009, 08:44 PM

get a couple rough estimates as to what it would take for a head gasket to be installed thru your local shops. also...ask that a mechanic evaluate it prior to purchase, just to get a idea of what you are getting into. if the car is worth 4k, subtract repair amounts from that nad offer that, or a little less to give yourself haggling room.

-dave

mikes94318i · 04-22-2009, 09:10 PM

Thanks for the info. I went and saw the car today, body/interior is in MINT, however the asking price is a bit higher than expected. The asking price is 2300 and the cost estimate to fix it is 2500.. So I'm not sure if the car is really worth 5000? No modifications of any nature, other than a newer CD player.