I am looking into purchasing a 350z for a first car. I found a 2003 touring z on Craigslist with 130k miles for $4.9k. It needs a new paint job and a cleaned interior. I was wondering if this is a good deal?

 

What do you know about the mechanical side of things? Nobody cares about paint and interior that can be taken care of on a dime.

If you can't/don't know how to do a full mechanical eval, pay a Z specialist or dealer to do a PPI (pre-purchase inspection). With such in hand, you have the full story on what you're getting into, repairwise/dollarwise, and, it gives you a measure of negotiating power. If seller won't consent to allowing this, walk away. Quickly.

 

Just based on the mileage, year, and condition details you've mentioned so far (paint and interior)... 4.9k is more than the vehicle is worth. Without more data, I can only see this vehicle being worth around 3k. Best case scenario the seller has detailed receipts covering maintenance and repairs. If the vehicle is mechanically sound and road worthy, then asking for 4k+ isn't without reason. But often times I find that people who let their interior and paint go to rot, also didn't give a rat's behind about mechanical maintenance! Look for a clean Z from a private seller, you won't be sorry spending a little extra. Also, listen to MicVelo, this is solid advice, pay the extra cash for an expert/professional inspection since this will be your 1st vehicle purchase.
-Icer

 

Damn....there are wheels for sale on here for not much more than the car he is looking at