66 Electra donor car -- How much is it worth?

[dlmwtvl]

So, I found this car up here in Maine.  66 Electra 401 st400
The owner wasn't home, but the sign in the back window says $4500.00 obo. Mint condition...
After a thorough inspection, I find the frame, just at the trans. crosmember, is rusted clean through, on the drivers side. Also, both rear body mounts are completely gone.
The interior is original, and about 80%
The body still has the original paint, and the panels are rust free and straight.
Rear bumper is not straight.
The sign says runs good. 95,000 miles on car.
My question is.... How much do I offer this guy without insulting him.
He feels its mint condition, but, Its far from mint.
I want the engine and trans, for my 65 Skylark. 
Any advice would be appreciated.
Sincerely, David

[GS66]

Around here $800-$2000 if the frame is that rusty.

[jmos4]

Hi,

Not sure where your located, but I just got a 66 Electra 225 2 door, frame is solid that I got to part out. Sill rather complete, minus engine and trans.  So if you need parts its located in Michigan between Detroit,  Flint and Port Huron.

Regards,

[option B9]

  Hi David, If the engine & trans runs good, Jim is right up to $2000. if you have the space and the time to part out the Electra some  BCA members may be looking for those good  parts. So you could offer the owner a little more, that may just get you the engine & tranny you need without traveling all over the northeast.  Go on ebay and see how much those Electra parts are selling for. Add it up and see what numbers you come up with.. thats the formula that I have used more than once... Tony

[cwmcobra]

Buick Club of America