So an auto trans 525 with 200k and paint issues is overpriced at $3600. No bartering techniques required. If you are shopping socal CL, you should be able to find a better buy than that.
Now if an auto trans is what you want, and the condition meets your needs, make an offer, worst thing they can do is say no. Then you move on to the next one.
People ask for a LOT more than their cars are worth all the time. This does not mean you have to pay what they ask. That is probably a $1500-2000 car, regardless of what the owner wants, that is the market value. The reason the value is low like that is mainly because these are maintenance intensive vehicles, especially as they age. It will last a long time but you will have regular cash outlays to keep it in good shape.