could this be a scam

Contact the woman, and tell her you have a cop buddy in her area, and you would like to have him inspect the car. See if she backs down, or gives you the run around. If she does, you may want to contact the state attorney general with the details. If it crosses state lines, I believe it becomes a federal issue. I think at that time it becomes an FBI fraud issue. I'm no expert, just my .02. Tim