[Mr. K]

who the heck traded in a 1988 BMW - for $4500?

Isn’t it worth that much in the oen market?

[ecomcon]

$1500 buys one here in San Diego area.

[Yardstick]

Here’s what a 1988 535is looks like:

http://images.google.com/images?hl=en&safe=off&client=firefox-a&rls=org.mozilla%3Aen-US%3Aofficial&um=1&sa=1&q=1988+bmw+535is&btnG=Search+images&aq=f&oq=&aqi=&start=0

I own an old BMW 6-series and am somewhat familiar with the 5 series market. You could get $4500 or more for a nice one with relatively low miles if you can find the right buyer. With the typical wear and tear you won’t get $4500.

[KarlInOhio]

KBB.com only goes back to 1989, but a 1989 BMW 5 Series 535i automatic in excellent condition with 214,000 miles has a suggested retail value of $3650.