Your numbers look right versus where the cars are being offered. One last question, for BMW 540i's. Given sport packages on both, are the 6 speeds more or less valuable than the automatics?
Assuming that she doesn't have a multi-page traffic abstract or claims record, that $1440 premium puts us insurance guys in the same boat as the car salesmen who sold her that car for $10K @14%. She was a "grape" ready to get plucked.
I'm in the Northwest, and no it has not been damaged at all just driven alot. Sound like the offer of $10,000 was a good one then(as a trade)? Thanks again.
OK, I'll stop playing car dealer with the 420... sigh
FWIW, I'm a Texas resident currently in Atlanta. I'm moving back west soon, but I can work from anywhere. I can establish residency werever I need to, and if it keeps a tax dollar out of the Gub-mint's hands I'll bend over backward.
On the Jag, we have a classic case of analysis paralysis based primarily on the high transaction costs. If it were, say, 1500 shares of CSCO that's easy - you can be in and out in the same day for $20 plus the bid/ask spread and you get to use limit orders, stops, lots of liquidity, fungible goods. That I sleep well at night with.
This is a $30k option (e.g. wasting asset) position with a huge spread and low liquidity, minimal price discovery, no readily available depreciation analytics (Other than your kind services), and very much not fungible. Otherwise I'd flip through cars until I found what I like.
Plus, of course, you're not paranoid if they really are out to get you, and some of your less savory brethren certainly are.
I just need a little more time to wrap my brain around the car markets enough to be comfortable pulling the trigger. (Yes, I'm a programmer turned swing trader)
O.K., so I'm off to try to qualify/disqualify an S4... Hopefully I won't like it, or I'll love it to death. Arrgh.
Yah, she didn't even get kissed... Her record when she got the policy was completely clean. Shes since made one claim (the wheel) and got nicked for one "too fast for conditions", which it wasn't but don't get me started.
I asked her what price she started bargaining from and she got this funny look and sorta softly said "bargain?"
Funny thing is, she moved here from Brazil 12 years ago (High-school), so I know she knows how to get a deal, 'cause that's the norm down there. Guess they thought everything in the U.S. was non-negotiable.
Jump on the deal Assuming you're not getting $10K against MSRP on an Accord or something.. The car would struggle to bring $9K at auction... that's a very strong #!
Looked at a 98 RL Premium in a clean condition (with normal wear), had 33K miles on it, Pre-leased. Delear asking 249XX. What would be a good price for this car? Located near Boston, MA.
I appreciate you valueble comments. Thanks in advance.
If its' clean and in a good color... I'd want to see you in the $23,500-24K range on that car retail. Miles are good on it, just look it over for previous accident damage and the like.
I already checked the full CARFAX record and it is clean, only one record saying it was leased in May 98. To some one in SouthHadly, a small town in MASS. I know the people ther keep their cars clean. Dealer called me this afternoon and asked me to take another test drive, he is willing to lendit out or an hour just for me and my wife so we can get a feeling.
I offered him $23K, he said he bought it for more than that, which I don't belive. Will make another offer tomorrow at $23.5K.
I get Practical Classics at my local Barnes & Noble, but they seem to do an exceptional job of obtaining British car mags. PC is my favorite and I read them all (Classic & Sports Car, Thoroughbred and Classic Cars). Funny thing - I don't own an old British car and have no intention. But it's kind of a fantasy mag for me.
The US distributor is in NJ - EMAP Active. $69/year subscription.
The reason I ask is that they are giving away one of their staff cars - - 1965 Cresta PB. It's right up your alley.
This site is mucho fun to watch....best on Town Hall....you guys know your stuff...real-world-wise! Here's a ? from an amateur who trades way to often but willing to pony-up the money to indulge my vice. What's the smartest thing to buy, right now, that will likely hold value over the next 18-24 months (so I can trade again)? My limitations....gotta be a wagonish sorta thing and out the door under $35k...new or one of those almost new if used is the way to go.
One car that comes to mind - VW Passat. Available in wagon w/ AWD... Out the door should be ~$32-33K. BMWs and Audis (3 series or A4) should also qualify...
PBs are just OK... I like the PAs a LOT Better. And the lastest update (after it getting hit) is that I just got a "Spot-On" model for a PA. Nice shape too! )
You need a British car man, like an old MG or somethin for the weekends.
.......Good choices Bill....don't forget the new Volvo wagon's , they run forever..the re-sell on them are great, they kinda' go dormant after a year or so as far as depreciation goes, buyers are not afraid of a 4 yr old 60K Volvo.. --- and they are popular.... especially the new TC..
The Suburu's have a wonderful reputation ...and they do very well in the NE, also they are grabbing a big following in the west and NW, and their resale is super.
So, check them all out ---- And alway's, buy what you like ....
Reading some of the past posts, you mentioned you sold 911's in a past life. What do you think is the best value is between late 80's Carrera's, early 90's Carreras and maybe a 95 Carrera. I like the early 90's 911's best (new body style and interior) but have heard mixed reviews on reliability.
Don't let your size scare you. I'm 6'5", but I don't let that prevent me from driving my Alfa Spider. As long as its not a daily driver and you don't take long trips in it, its fine. I have a blast zipping around in that car even though there is no way I could be "comfortable" in it.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
I am looking at purchasing a second vehicle for driving to work and recreation. I have come across a 93 Explorer Sport 4WD with 98,500 miles on it. It is loaded with leather interior and automatic transmission. The Firestone tires were just replaced last month and the body is in good condition. I can get it for $4,700 from a private seller. Is this a good deal? Also, how reliable is this vehicle?
.....Based on what you are saying , it's kinda sounds nice.
Based on what the miles are, with the 98 klicks, I gotta think your offer should be more inline with a $3,000 figure......the miles kill it , especially with a 4X4, if you need to have it --- then spend a extra $100 or so, and have it checked out by a Ford dealer...then make a decision..----
...... If the Honda is all there-- meaning it's knee deep in rubber, it has all the eye's and cool breeze --- and everything work's That's actually not a bad price --- But, have it checked out first...if it all check's out, start the ball rolling around $4,500, and see what kind of response you get...
Now, the Sentra..that's kinda a different story--- you should be more towards a $3,500 area.... If, these are "hand shakers", kick another "nik" off...
80's 911s: Gotta be an 87-89 Because you get the G50 tranny. HUGE upgrade for that car.
90s 911s: I love C4s, also, (Like most owners would do it tho) amazingly good in the snow with snow tires. I dont like 89-90s tho. Handling was wacky. But the C2 is a much much better carthan the old 3.2 Carerras.
Anyone help me with a '99 Chevy S-10 with the ZR2 off-road pkg. Auto, power everything, CD and cassette, air, tilt, cruise, buckets, off-road tires, bed liner, sliding rear window, HO 4.3L 190hp V6, alloy wheels. Basically, to get the ZR2 package you have to get the LS trim and all the extra options. It has 28,000 miles is in great condition and is garage kept. Thanks in advance for any help given as I cannot find one selling online. Only have Edmunds and KBB numbers to go by!
..........Ok, let's see, it's a Cheby, "Wit Da Z pac..." It's an auto, 2 WD..reg cab..? - big help-....If it's as super nice as you may think, tires are new, and there's no puppy vomit in it...no scratches or major dings in it - plus you have all the stuff. The miles are a tinge on the high side..
So, I thinkin' you are in our around $10,000ish (real money) figure..
Even though I am not planning on getting rid of this yet, I am curious about it's wholesale/retail value.
It a 1999 Buick Regal LS, Platinum Color, 36K miles, Gran Touring Package (16" wheels), new tires, brakes, leather interior, 1 front fender ding (paint not broken).
It's in nice shape, and looks like new. (I wash, polish (zaino), it regularly.
........... Small world again, I have bought 5 of these in the last 2 months..
But anyway, if the LS looks brand new .., has the cd/concert, steering controls, you are in and around $11,800 to $12,300 ( hard money)...the 36K holds it back a little...
Unfortunately, I believe you. I paid 22K for it 2 years and 3 months ago, and now I might get 12K for it.
No more new cars for me. From now on I am going with cars or most likely, trucks with 55K-60K miles on them. I'll have them checked out by a mechanic, detailed, and throw new tires and brakes on them, and I should be good to go.
I really appreciate the info that you and Bill provide!
The best way to buy these cars is, as you said, used. I mean, I look at it this way:
Almost nobody wants to keep a car for 10 years. Most want to keep it for 2-4. The average ownership cycle is 3 years or so. That being said, any modern car is going to last at least 10 years with proper care. I just can't financially justify buying a new car. Period. Unless I can lease it for business purposes.
In my opinion, if I buy a new DeVille and trade it after 3 years, I just gave the next guy who buys it $20,000! In fact, for what you can pay for a nice '98 DeVille, you could also buy a nice used XJ6, I30, Acura 3.2TL, etc to go along with it instead of a 01 DeVille.
Scary, isnt it? Generally I think that buying a clean, late-model used car with good miles is the only smart way to drive most mass-market cars. There are some exceptions, such as VW Passats, some German cars, etc..
Look at it this way, for what a New LeSabre would cost you, you could be driving a 99 Cadillac.
I know which steering wheel I'd rather wrap my claws around!
Am considering buying a 325, but am thinking about resale 5 years down the road. Would like to get a stripper with only a CD player (no sunroof, no wood, no xenons, etc.) but am concerned whether anyone will want this car when it is 5 years old. The edmunds used TMV indicates that this would be a smart purchase with low depreciation, but want to know how it would sell in the real world. Also, am considering either white w/ tan leatherette or silver w/ red leather. Will one color have better resale over the other? Thanks very much.
Thanks for your figures on the S-10, yes it is 4WD hence the ZR2 Off-Road pkg and yes it is an extended cab. A dealer offered me 15k so I may take that.
.......If it's got the 4X4 and a extended cab...that does change a lot of things --- By a ton of $$$..
$15,000 is all the money..all the peso's.
I'm not standing there looking at the vehicle , but $14,000/$14,500 on the push, is "bingo night" --- So, yes -- Take the $15,000 trade if it's - real money - and enjoy your next vehicle ....
Thanks for your help Terry. The $15k is real money as I am buying the new truck under invoice thanks to a suppliers discount, and there are no incentives or cash backs at this time.
I swear, I swear I was only re-checking the XJs, but the ever-so-nice folks at Jaguar were more than willing to offer me a ride in an XK8...
I know there's no prayer of going with the '99 I drove, but is there any way to get into an in-warranty XK8 for under 30k? They didn't have a coupe handy, but I might even be able to live with bumping my head for a few years...
I came across something in one of the national books that gives the retail values of cars and I wanted your opinion on it.
This source says that a dealer selling a used 2000 Toyota Echo with between 20,000 and 25,000 would be asking 101% of the car's original sticker price if it was in excellent condition.
FWIW, a used Echo is hard to come by in my neck of the woods and the two that I have seen did have asking prices of more than the original sticker price.
It is a wonderful car... But for a $30K retail XK8...
Sheesh, I suppose a coupe could be found but XK8 coupes in general are quite rare beasts. My guess is a 50K mile or so coupe MIGHT be doable for $30K if you're very lucky.
Still under warranty? No way that I can see. If you do find ANY under warranty XK8 for that price its' got to be a nasty pig of a beast or the luckiest day you ever had fromwhere I sit.
For a convertible? Its' gonna be a 97 in a lousy color with a lot of miles.
Comments
Thanks again.
FWIW, I'm a Texas resident currently in Atlanta. I'm moving back west soon, but I can work from anywhere. I can establish residency werever I need to, and if it keeps a tax dollar out of the Gub-mint's hands I'll bend over backward.
On the Jag, we have a classic case of analysis paralysis based primarily on the high transaction costs. If it were, say, 1500 shares of CSCO that's easy - you can be in and out in the same day for $20 plus the bid/ask spread and you get to use limit orders, stops, lots of liquidity, fungible goods. That I sleep well at night with.
This is a $30k option (e.g. wasting asset) position with a huge spread and low liquidity, minimal price discovery, no readily available depreciation analytics (Other than your kind services), and very much not fungible. Otherwise I'd flip through cars until I found what I like.
Plus, of course, you're not paranoid if they really are out to get you, and some of your less savory brethren certainly are.
I just need a little more time to wrap my brain around the car markets enough to be comfortable pulling the trigger. (Yes, I'm a programmer turned swing trader)
O.K., so I'm off to try to qualify/disqualify an S4... Hopefully I won't like it, or I'll love it to death. Arrgh.
-Greg
I asked her what price she started bargaining from and she got this funny look and sorta softly said "bargain?"
Funny thing is, she moved here from Brazil 12 years ago (High-school), so I know she knows how to get a deal, 'cause that's the norm down there. Guess they thought everything in the U.S. was non-negotiable.
Ignorance is painful.
Youre feeling Generous.. I just picked up a 98 with 48K in Pearl White with a roof and chromes for 19,000 few weeks ago...
Maybe i was a touch light, but I was also looking in MMR for the midwest...
Bill
Current wholesale in CA is about $23-24K or so right now. Shoot.. might as well consider new.
00s are MUCH nicer than 99s, but $50 says prices fall starting in sept/Oct as they start coming off-lease
Bill
The 540i is weird. Perhaps the one car where a 6-speed manual is more valuable than the automatic. Sport pkg helps a lot too tho.
Bill
Jump on the deal Assuming you're not getting $10K against MSRP on an Accord or something.. The car would struggle to bring $9K at auction... that's a very strong #!
Bill
Whatever ya buy is gonna depreciate and cost ya $$ silly
Just find something you like that you can comfortably afford, get a good deal on it and enjoy the car!
Bill
Located near Boston, MA.
I appreciate you valueble comments.
Thanks in advance.
thanks,,,
1999 Saab 9-5 SE sedan, 17985 miles to be exact, all the goodies, Philly area, burgundy on tan leather, looks in xlnt condition.
Bidding starts at $24K.
On another topic: hey Bill, do you read "Practical Classics"?
Bill
Do I want to be the bad guy here?
I'm afraid that $29Kish is what the car is worth with about 10K miles or so on it...
With 45,000 miles on a 2000... its' going to get some low bids, I think that about $25K or so is all the money for it.
Bill
Auto? 5-Speed? V6?
Bill
I read it when I can find it! It isnt imported anymore I dont think...
Bill
I offered him $23K, he said he bought it for more than that, which I don't belive. Will make another offer tomorrow at $23.5K.
Thanks for your input.
These cars don't hold value like one would expect from Acuras...
I get Practical Classics at my local Barnes & Noble, but they seem to do an exceptional job of obtaining British car mags. PC is my favorite and I read them all (Classic & Sports Car, Thoroughbred and Classic Cars). Funny thing - I don't own an old British car and have no intention. But it's kind of a fantasy mag for me.
The US distributor is in NJ - EMAP Active. $69/year subscription.
The reason I ask is that they are giving away one of their staff cars - - 1965 Cresta PB. It's right up your alley.
Out the door should be ~$32-33K.
BMWs and Audis (3 series or A4) should also qualify...
Sheesh, car could be worth $24Kwholesale....
Thanks, I'll subscribe!
PBs are just OK... I like the PAs a LOT Better. And the lastest update (after it getting hit) is that I just got a "Spot-On" model for a PA. Nice shape too!
You need a British car man, like an old MG or somethin for the weekends.
Bill
I'd say look for a 99-00 RX300, or look at like a 528i Turing, Mercedes E-Class wagon (If you get lucky and find a deal on a nice 98)
Depends.. what do you like?
Bill
The Suburu's have a wonderful reputation ...and they do very well in the NE, also they are grabbing a big following in the west and NW, and their resale is super.
So, check them all out ---- And alway's, buy what you like ....
Terry.
Ps-- doesn't Dawahwuu hava a wagon...OOOOH.
But I've always liked the Triumph Stag, if only for that sound.
Another one is the MGC-GT with the Rover V8.
Actually, I've been seriously looking at an Alfa GTV2000. That'd do the trick as its fun and cool and I can fit behind the wheel.
'11 GMC Sierra 1500; '98 Alfa 156 2.0TS; '08 Maser QP; '67 Coronet R/T; '13 Fiat 500c; '20 S90 T6; '22 MB Sprinter 2500 4x4 diesel; '97 Suzuki R Wagon; '96 Opel Astra; '11 Mini Cooper S
1) 94 Civic EX, Sunroof, Tape, ABS
96K miles: $5500 + tax title tag etc total 6100.
2)96 Sentra GXE 98K miles
$5000 + tax title tags etc
Please suggest what should be a good price on this
Thanks
Based on what the miles are, with the 98 klicks, I gotta think your offer should be more inline with a $3,000 figure......the miles kill it , especially with a 4X4, if you need to have it --- then spend a extra $100 or so, and have it checked out by a Ford dealer...then make a decision..----
I hope this helps..
Terry.
That's actually not a bad price --- But, have it checked out first...if it all check's out, start the ball rolling around $4,500, and see what kind of response you get...
Now, the Sentra..that's kinda a different story--- you should be more towards a $3,500 area....
If, these are "hand shakers", kick another "nik" off...
Terry.
I'd say... Hmm... depends on your budget.
80's 911s: Gotta be an 87-89 Because you get the G50 tranny. HUGE upgrade for that car.
90s 911s: I love C4s, also, (Like most owners would do it tho) amazingly good in the snow with snow tires. I dont like 89-90s tho. Handling was wacky. But the C2 is a much much better carthan the old 3.2 Carerras.
95+s... Ooohh... 993s.. Even better yet.
IMHO, a 91+ C2 Coupe is tough to beat.
Bill
It's an auto, 2 WD..reg cab..? - big help-....If it's as super nice as you may think, tires are new, and there's no puppy vomit in it...no scratches or major dings in it - plus you have all the stuff. The miles are a tinge on the high side..
So, I thinkin' you are in our around $10,000ish (real money) figure..
I hope this help's ...
Terry.
It a 1999 Buick Regal LS, Platinum Color, 36K miles, Gran Touring Package (16" wheels), new tires, brakes, leather interior, 1 front fender ding (paint not broken).
It's in nice shape, and looks like new. (I wash, polish (zaino), it regularly.
Thanks for your help, guys!
But anyway, if the LS looks brand new .., has the cd/concert, steering controls, you are in and around $11,800 to $12,300 ( hard money)...the 36K holds it back a little...
I hope this helps...
Terry.
No more new cars for me. From now on I am going with cars or most likely, trucks with 55K-60K miles on them. I'll have them checked out by a mechanic, detailed, and throw new tires and brakes on them, and I should be good to go.
I really appreciate the info that you and Bill provide!
Terry beat me to it but I agree with his #.
The best way to buy these cars is, as you said, used. I mean, I look at it this way:
Almost nobody wants to keep a car for 10 years. Most want to keep it for 2-4. The average ownership cycle is 3 years or so. That being said, any modern car is going to last at least 10 years with proper care. I just can't financially justify buying a new car. Period. Unless I can lease it for business purposes.
In my opinion, if I buy a new DeVille and trade it after 3 years, I just gave the next guy who buys it $20,000! In fact, for what you can pay for a nice '98 DeVille, you could also buy a nice used XJ6, I30, Acura 3.2TL, etc to go along with it instead of a 01 DeVille.
Scary, isnt it? Generally I think that buying a clean, late-model used car with good miles is the only smart way to drive most mass-market cars. There are some exceptions, such as VW Passats, some German cars, etc..
Look at it this way, for what a New LeSabre would cost you, you could be driving a 99 Cadillac.
I know which steering wheel I'd rather wrap my claws around!
Bill
If, you are to purchase one..just make sure it's got the toy's ..a "base BMW", goes nowhere -- in a big fat hurry.
If you are going to keep it for the 4/5 year period then you won't -- feel or miss the difference...
But, like Bill said..go to a 1 year old or so preowned, save the "Jingle" and enjoy the toy's that go with...
Terry.
$15,000 is all the money..all the peso's.
I'm not standing there looking at the vehicle , but $14,000/$14,500 on the push, is "bingo night" --- So, yes -- Take the $15,000 trade if it's - real money - and enjoy your next vehicle ....
Good luck, and enjoy it..
Terry.
Color depends a lot on where you live. Black in the NYC area is always a good bet. White in FL is always strong.
I'd suggest Silver/Grey myself over the red.
Yes, a stripper will be tough to sell. BMW 3ers are one of the few cars that don't get hurt by manual trannies though. No roof? No leather? Low bid.
Why not find a nice used Y2K or 99 328i that's loaded?
Bill
That's strong money for your trade, my guess is they have a buyer for it.
If its' that plus a supplier deal.. grab it. You've done well.
Bill
I know there's no prayer of going with the '99 I drove, but is there any way to get into an in-warranty XK8 for under 30k? They didn't have a coupe handy, but I might even be able to live with bumping my head for a few years...
Mmm, sweet, sweet little cars!
-Greg
This source says that a dealer selling a used 2000 Toyota Echo with between 20,000 and 25,000 would be asking 101% of the car's original sticker price if it was in excellent condition.
FWIW, a used Echo is hard to come by in my neck of the woods and the two that I have seen did have asking prices of more than the original sticker price.
It is a wonderful car... But for a $30K retail XK8...
Sheesh, I suppose a coupe could be found but XK8 coupes in general are quite rare beasts. My guess is a 50K mile or so coupe MIGHT be doable for $30K if you're very lucky.
Still under warranty? No way that I can see. If you do find ANY under warranty XK8 for that price its' got to be a nasty pig of a beast or the luckiest day you ever had fromwhere I sit.
For a convertible? Its' gonna be a 97 in a lousy color with a lot of miles.
You may want to rethink this...
Bill