W211 E500 Just saw it in person for the first time...
Super Member
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 763
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Kev:
I think I see now where you're coming from with your line of reasoning.
What you are saying is that it's been no small trick to sell a used E430 in your area, and that selling a used 320 is easier. I wouldn't question that.
I think the leap, however, to the conclusion that the W211E500 will be harder to resell is likely erroneous.
The biggest reason is that the E is beginning a new model run and will continue to look 'current' for at least 5 more years. So reselling one 3-4 years from now will be relatively easier than reselling a W210E430 at the end of its model run.
I think I see now where you're coming from with your line of reasoning.
What you are saying is that it's been no small trick to sell a used E430 in your area, and that selling a used 320 is easier. I wouldn't question that.
I think the leap, however, to the conclusion that the W211E500 will be harder to resell is likely erroneous.
The biggest reason is that the E is beginning a new model run and will continue to look 'current' for at least 5 more years. So reselling one 3-4 years from now will be relatively easier than reselling a W210E430 at the end of its model run.
Super Member
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 524
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From: So. FL
2003 SL Launch Edition, 2003 E500 Pewter/Stone
I find it hard to believe that "resale" is such a big factor to folks who seem to be, as my wife and I are, car enthusiasts. If gas cost, overall cost over 5 years, etc. was paramount, we would all be buying Hondas or maybe even Hyundais!!!!
Moreover, if the leasing rates on the MB site are accurate, you can actually lease comparably equipped E500 for less than E320 if you add the items such as airmatic, 4 zone a/c, metallic paint and leather (much less getting the V8 and larger wheels). That suggests that MB believes that the resale on the 500 will equal or exceed that of the 320.
Moreover, if the leasing rates on the MB site are accurate, you can actually lease comparably equipped E500 for less than E320 if you add the items such as airmatic, 4 zone a/c, metallic paint and leather (much less getting the V8 and larger wheels). That suggests that MB believes that the resale on the 500 will equal or exceed that of the 320.
Newbie
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 12
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From: florida
e-420
cost
Its like the old saying, if you have to ask how much you probably should not be buying it. And whoever thinks about how much gas costs??? It seems that there are a lot of dreamers here. If you like it then buy it. If you have to try and rationalize it then don't sorry if I sound rude have had a few beers and am tired. good night
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Dec 2001
Posts: 5,583
Likes: 212
From: Washington D.C.
2024 GLE63s / 2016 GLE63s (traded) / 2016 E63s / 2002 E55
If Money was no object the buyer would not be looking at used cars?
In just about every car line where the car has optional engines the smaller engine is usually the better seller. I just read a review of the upcoming new Honda Accord and it stated that the 4 banger outsells the V6. And of course the E320 outsells the E430/E500 etc. In 1996 model year there was no such thing as a W210 E-Class with a V8 and the 1998 E430 V8 did not hit the US until February 1998 whereas the E320 starting selling in Sept of 1997.
Most members on this board like myself or car enthusiasts and/or fanatics and gas mileage and V8 are no concern, however, in the real world, the average car buyers, the majority are concerned with such things as gas mileage, 4's or sixes, and V6 versus V8. V8 engines represent a very small niche market in many car lines. The bigger the V8, the more HP the less numbers it will sell. Case in point - E55/V8/poor mileage/350 HP equal limited buyers and demand. That is why only 500 or so are built for the entire US.
In the used market - if the buyer is buying used versues new then price and cost of maintanance and gas is a big concern. If it was not a concern, the buyer would not be in the used market in the first place.
So be warned - you buyers of E500 and cars with thirsty V8's - Not easy to sell!
Most members on this board like myself or car enthusiasts and/or fanatics and gas mileage and V8 are no concern, however, in the real world, the average car buyers, the majority are concerned with such things as gas mileage, 4's or sixes, and V6 versus V8. V8 engines represent a very small niche market in many car lines. The bigger the V8, the more HP the less numbers it will sell. Case in point - E55/V8/poor mileage/350 HP equal limited buyers and demand. That is why only 500 or so are built for the entire US.
In the used market - if the buyer is buying used versues new then price and cost of maintanance and gas is a big concern. If it was not a concern, the buyer would not be in the used market in the first place.
So be warned - you buyers of E500 and cars with thirsty V8's - Not easy to sell!
Last edited by E55 KEV; Aug 30, 2002 at 10:08 AM.
