Deb, there is a solution or two for your problem.

A 357 will take care of your friend but you will still be stuck holding a pretty car with a bad engine.

The other is a lawyer. The car is easily worth more than a grand. Making it theft by deceit.
That he abandoned the car outside of your possesion means it doesn't matter if you had a bill of sale, title change or anything.

It means, essentially, he stole it. Even if he gave you a "good faith" payment.

Sue for value and damages. You actually have a case to have him arrested. Bet he pays up quick.

franc