If you’re on the hunt for a special used ride without paying special prices, Craigslist can be a very useful tool these days (…just as long as you weed out all the scams), one of the reasons being that you search locally and avoid the exposure and the competition that comes with it on big sites like eBay.

This 1997 BMW 540i of the E34 generation that I found on Craigslist Boston piqued my interest because of the car’s condition in the photos (of course, you still have to see it in person and have a mechanic check it out), the fact that it has only 37,000 miles or close to 60,000km (39,000 miles according to the tabbed section) and an asking price of $5,995, which I assume can be negotiated.

Now, here’s the catch and ultimately, the deal breaker for me: the 282hp (286PS) 4.0-liter V8 is linked to a five-speed automatic, but that may not be a problem for all interested buyers.

The Newton, Mass. seller says the car comes with four snow tires in addition to the original wheels seen in the pictures.

“The air conditioner needs a charge and the brake pads may need to be done eventually but otherwise it’s in great shape and passed inspection last week,” reads the ad.

“The story: my grandfather bought this car new in 1995, and drove it to the store twice a week. I drove it in high school and college (local) but never put too many miles on it. We have fixed minor issues here and there, but on the whole it is a reliable car. I am selling it now because I am moving to the city and I no longer have a need for the car,” said the seller.

If you happen to find any interesting cars on Craigslist, send them over to our email box.

By John Halas

PHOTO GALLERY

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