Finally found a 318ti but...

[Nobody]

Hello forum! I am relatively new here but I have been a fan of the 318ti's for awhile.
After months of looking I finally found one in my price range and I think it is worth getting. It is a 1997 version and I think it is the base model.

The gentleman wants 4,000 for it and it has only done 80,000 miles and is a 5-Speed. The exterior and interior are flawless.

Here is where I am in a jam. The gentleman says that the steering rack has a leak and needs replacing; along with the suspension being worn (just the front and rear shocks he says needs replacement); last but not least the two front tires need to be replaced. Now I have the money to replace all of these things listed but I don't have some of the tools they say to have (like a Dremel for the steering rack). I have a friend who can do most of this for me since he works on Bimmer's. I just want to know if it is worth the time and money for the money he is asking. He says the engine and tranny runs extremely well and that the car is drivable as is.

He also said he would thrown in front pads and rotors, along with two front leather seats from a 323 in for free.

All of this sounds like an amazing find to me and I really want this to be my next car. My first manual and Bimmer for my second car.

Thanks for taking time and answering me. I could really use the help!

- Nobody named Brian