Nearby my house someone has a black 1994 530i 5speed with 110,000 miles on the odo. They have on the for sale sign $6500 or best offer. Paint looks great (black) and interior is good as well. Only scratches on it are on the hood and they are 4 inches away from the top and sides of both the left and right of the hood. The catch is, its been out there with the sign for at least a month and a half. I have two questions about this car. What would its value be if it had maintence records and was in good running shape? And what kind of serious problem would keep this car from selling? I was pretty sure that this car was a steal, as my moms '95 525i auto with 103,000 mi was around 8 or 9 grand, but this car has been out there for so long. Anyone have thoughts on this car.

maybe it has a nikasil block... do a search (either google or on the forums) for this issue. Even if it is nikasil, it doesn't mean it's bad. Get a leakdown test before you buy. However, if it has maintenence records and everything checks out, I think $6500 sounds like a pretty fair price.

Good luck.

Yea I understand the nikasil/alusil(sp) engine issues. I suppose the easiest way to figure this out would be to just call the people and see what the full deal is.
What are everyone's opinions on the 530i? I really want a 5 speed (I'l never be able to afford a 540i/6) so does this seem like a good choice or should I find a 535i 5 speed? I'd imagine the inline six is lighter and would handle better (not trying to start any arguements). This whole discussion would be unimportant if I could just find an e28 535is.

Not a bad price, probably fair if it's in good shape. Month and a half isn't that bad, it's a 12 year old BMW with 110k, not just everyone is looking for a car like that. Would be worth a look if that's what you want. Have you seen this 535/5?
http://bimmerforums.com/forum/showthread.php?t=533452&highlight=535i