Good deal for a 2005 Ford Focus Zx3 SES?

[CarFreak1]

I am looking into buying a 2005 Ford Focus Zx3 SES. I have talked the dealer down to $8,750 for it. It has all the standard SES stuff plus a MP3 ready multi disc player, spoiler, and ABS. Is this a good price? Kelly Blue Book says $9550 for Retail Value, but only $7,550 for Private Party. Also does anyone know if this is a good car or not?

 

[krazybob613]

Properly maintained they are reliable and dependable vehicles.

KBB retail reflects the additional work that dealers perform, including thorough cleaning and polishing of the finish up to and including repainting of one or more body panels due to stone chips or scratches, and interior cleaning and a safety inspection and frequently a set of brake pads on the front before they even get placed on the lot.

KBB Private Party value allows for the difference and the likelihood that the vehicle needs additional mechanical work and in most cases are not nearly as completely cleaned and polished as a dealer car.