How much does it cost to re-paint a car with clear coat finish?

The car is a 1987 BMW 325. I've seen cost for paint job from $299. to $1200. I am trying to gauge a price spectrum or average price for a better than descent paint job.How much does it cost to re-paint a car with clear coat finish?
The cheaper paint jobs ($299-$599) involve masking the trim, and simply spraying the new paint over the old paint. If the new paint is in good shape, this isn't so much of a problem, but if the old paint is flaking or damaged, your new paint will peel right off eventually, and look ratty.





The higher end paint jobs ($1000-$4000) involves stripping the old finish (nasty and messy process), fixing all minor dings and dents, and then reprimering and painting the car. That's what you are paying for with the high cost of the job. Still, this usually results in a paint job that will last the life of the car with proper care.





Of MAJOR importance is whether you are changing the color. If you are repainting the car in the OEM color of the original finish, your door jambs and hood and trunk undersides will match, and that helps preserve the value and appeal of the car. In this case, a repaint over the original finish might not be such a bad deal. If you are changing the color, unless you paint the door jambs, inside frames, and hood and trunk undersides, the car will look odd. Choices, choices.How much does it cost to re-paint a car with clear coat finish?
If you really want the truth, and you do want a better than decent paint job, you're looking at about $2000-$2500. A paint job can go as high as $5000, I know I've been in a few accidents in my life. Hope that helps!