new vs. 1-3 year 'pre owned' - long term value

[shortyb]

quote:

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Originally posted by JHZR2:
. Just trying to make a point as I see it and have a good discussion.

Thanks!

JMH

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I see your point and understand the validity. I too appreciate the good discussion. This doesn't happen very often on the net without resorting to childish behavior except here on BITOG

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I may have been putting too much emphasis on the upgrade options (sport, premium package, sunroof etc.) to support a noticable increase in resale. I was using my own criteria, as these were important items of consideration in my recent purchase. I was up to this point a card carrying member of the "buy it new" crowd but I do feel good about this car and think it was a pretty decent deal all in all.

 

[JHZR2]

I'm sure it is AWESOME to drive... Most people like the options, and I can't blame you for saving a few bucks, knowing how pricey options and engine upgrades come on euro cars. Its a smart move for a fancy,loaded car. That consideration is a huge one, as it is not in my opinion worth it to pay new prices for the expensive options. Personally, I cant stand it if anything is wrong with my car, Im completely anal. At the same time, I like keeping my car, like new for a long time. The more options, the more things there are to go wrong. Id love if I could get more european cars in euro trim... manual sunroof, manual climate control, manual trans, vynyl interior

I wish you lots of luck with the car, and hope the rear diff does not start to whine (thats been my experience with 3-series, but I still love the cars).

Thanks,

JMH

 

[shortyb]

quote:

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Originally posted by JHZR2:
Personally, I cant stand it if anything is wrong with my car, Im completely anal. At the same time, I like keeping my car, like new for a long time.

JMH

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I hear ya. I am exactly the same hence the "never buy used" tag. Drives everyone I know nuts. Have to come here to get some sympathy

This car did meet my "standard" though, which frankly surprised me. Guess my twin lives in Ohio (where the car originally came from).

I'll keep an ear out for the diff whine, thanks. Continued happy motoring

[ December 10, 2004, 08:53 PM: Message edited by: shortyb ]

 

[Spector]

Much larger savings on a used car if you look at American made vs Japanese. the older the better if the mileage is low. For example recently got a GM certified 2000 Buick Regal GS with under 25,000 miles for $12,000. Over paid some but the mileage was great. all ins and taxes will be lower due to age and it will easily go over 100,000 miles. Can't touch a new car for that price not to mention ins cost etc. The depr the first few years is brutal. At one time I only purchsed new cars then when my kids started driving I went the used route and of the 5 purchased since then all have been great and except for accidents would still be driving all of them. Of the 5 cars I now service only one was purchased new, the 92 Camry with 170,000 miles. I don't think new cars will ever be in my future again.

Twenty years ago things were different, today, it is almost impossible to ruin an engine in 50,000 or less miles.