$2,500 seems like a more reasonable deal.
Regarding the engine bay, my 40,000 S13 came the same way.
Dusty as FUCK.
My other 60,000 S13 came the same way.
All it needs is a good wash/detail to look great again.
I mean, think about it. The car is close to pushing 20 years pretty soon.
Of course things on the car are going to be dirty.
Before:
After:
Try to bring him down to $2,500. If not, just eat the cost and buy it at his asking price.
It's a definite plus that it's an SE with all the options and it's 5-speed.
Really can't beat that.
Just don't try to buy that car and flip it for double on craigslist.
Saw it yesterday with the guy that just recently bought a 40,000 S13 from Nissan trying to flip it for $5,000.
Gave me a good laugh.