you will never ever sell that car for more then 5k USD no matter what ! 255k miles is whay to much for a car. What about bearings, seals, gaskets, bushings, radiator, exhaust, suspension, etc. all of these items are needed to be replaced at this mileage. This might be a good car to keep if you own it already, but wait until he goes down to 5,500 and then buy it. If the mechanic buys it for 8,500 then let him do it and you'll buy it from him ! Unless it is yours, you don't know what's behind it ! I'm not trying to scare you away, but I think you should be able to find a lower mileage and nicer condition for 8,500USD. I had cars with 189k miles, they were nice, but anything I touched, needed some sort if a repair. It might be still a good buy, but not on full price !!! 5,500USD that's the most I'd pay for it ! but hey, good luck !