1996 Suzuki Swift 5 speed

[bowtieguy]

wanted to start a poll on this one, for those that might have an opinion but otherwise wouldn't post. what would you offer for this 1996 suzuki swift?...http://orlando.craigslist.org/cto/2911872536.html

it has 300k miles(likely not original drivetrain), missing timing cover, and one ripped cv boot
it also has perfect a/c, fairly new clutch, good body, and good interior
it runs and shifts great
tires are decent and can wait a bit
even w/ the mileage kbb has excellent condition at nearly $1500
there was another that sold w/ the asking price of $2k(unsure of actual sale of course)

[GasSavers_BEEF]

as gas prices go up, the supply is going to go down and prices up.

if you want it, get it.

honestly it is only a $500 delta between the top and bottom price. you could talk to the guy and see if he is willing to do less but at the end of the day get it if you want it.

[GasSavers_Erik]

If you want the car, casually offer him $1800 and see what happens. If he doesn't take it the offer, you can always give him the full $2K.

[bowtieguy]

thanks guys, i'm gonna think it over. i'm in no rush and there are several things in my favor...

i believe i'm the only one to take interest
most would likely refuse to drive something so small
how many really know about the swift?
who's gonna buy a car for that much w/ so many miles?

[bowtieguy]

the owner just dropped his price to $1800 "firm."

[Gr8Gas]

If I can weigh in on negotiation, first rule of negotiation, find the sellers bottom and to attempt that, have two friends, contact the seller, with what you think is a "very nice Bottom Price", work the seller until they bottom out, then have your friend, write and say, I need to think about it for a month. Then have the second friend, take the absolute bottom, which the seller thought they had for sure but now lost, then have the second friend bid $500 lower than the absolute lowest the first friend got and let the seller, inch by inch, pull the price up. When the second working session is finished, you know what absolute bottom is, call the seller, tell him you have saved for 6 months, all you have is $200 less than what you know his or her absolute bottom is and then let them split the difference. Then they are not angry of you, because the other two people were not you and they gave you the car, for the rarest of absolute bottom dollar. This technique is called 1st, 2nd, 3rd Base then Home Run!