'94 S4 FMV - please respond!

[sargent@novagate.com]

Hello all,

I am looking at an interesting '94 S4 with 44k miles on it in L.A., and
would like to hereby solicit opinions of Fair Market Value on this fine
car. The car is in excellent overall condition, with a few minor knicks
inside and out (can count them all on one hand). It also has the RS2
turbo/manifold with a Hoppen chip (2.5 bar PT), 17" BBS RX mit 50% worn
245/40/ZR17 Dunlop SP8000 tires. Rounding out the modifications are
Hoppen/ABT springs and Bilstein custom valued shocks. 

It has also been in a minor front end collision recently, but the repair
was first rate. There are a few minor mechanical issues that need tending
to (R&R stock front pads/rotors). The transmission is a bit notchy, and I
hear a slight ticking, (not just in first - sounds almost like an exhaust
leak). There is a 1-2k rpm buzz, a la a loose heat shield or the like.
Otherwise it is in good shape mechanically. It has been driven fairly hard,
with numerous track events over it's 44k miles (modified from day 1, I
believe), but again, always well taken care of.

As far as the collision (with a mountainside, not another car)is concerned:
I witnessed the accident, so I know the extent of the damage (I was
riding/following in a similarly modified S6). It did not look too bad, but
was not drivable due to loss of coolant. Replaced in the process: both
front fenders, one subframe/extension  piece (bolt-on?), radiator, ac
condenser, bumper, headlights, clutch plate (didn't need it, but the engine
was out), timing belt, aux belts, wasserpump, all fluids, and other misc.
tidbits. Overall it was a first rate repair job. The facility is the only
LA (entire west coast?) facility authorized to do full body repairs to the
A8. Not a shabby place, as I understand it (full laser alignment, etc.). I
believe the tab came to around $13k for repairs (ins. paid for everything).

The owner is a friend of mine, and I do not wish to low-ball him, but he
has been given Blue Book figures by the dealer which I find astronomical,
given what I've seen these cars advertised for. KBB shows almost $33k list
for a 'stock' car in excellent condition, $26k as trade in. Edmund's shows
$24k retail, $19k trade-in.  Obviously there is quite a disparity.

There are few S4's for sale in SoCal, so local price comparisons are hard
to come by. I saw a stock 93 S4 with 67k miles advertised for $18k 8 months
ago, but that's about it. 

Summation: A  _very_ nice car that has some desirable mods, has been driven
hard, but well-cared for, and a minor accident history. What is realistic
FMV? 

I'd also like to hear from owners with RS2 mods as to the 'maintenance'
factor - I am a 200q 20v owner who has been through it all, currently my
engine is being rebuilt. I want a relatively maintenance free existence,
and fear tranny troubles and the like... What's the highest mileage RS2
configured car and what sort of troubles am I looking at in the future? If
I decide to pass on it, I will forward any interested parties his number. 

Thanks _very much_ in advance to those who can help me with some insight
and real-world valuations. I appreciate it! 

Regards,

Sarge

91 200q Bilstein/Eibach, audiophile stereo, rebuilt engine, new turbo,
euros, many upgrades. FOR SALE SOON?
95 Jeep Wrangler (also for sale)