VinceB

So KBB is probably a good rule of thumb (possibly between trade in value and private party?) but wondering what is the going rate for a low mileage, private party - original owner SL 55, well optioned?

Figure the auction cars have unknown history so a private party is probably worth more. Wondering what people are seeing out there?

Gene Gorman

PM sent

sf65

I bought my car in Jan after looking for a 6 months for a perfect SL55 and "accidentally" landed 65. I wanted to see the car and test drive so limited my search to the bay area.

You didn't say what year you had in mind or color.

For some reason black/black has 5%-10% premium and these cars sell the fastest. The silver-ish ones usually go for around KBB and once you get into the weird colors price can drop like a rock and some just can't sell.

My data is 6 months old, but i've seen the '03 selling for high 30s, and the '05 for high 40s. Not many '04 for for some reason. Didn't look at new ones.

Private party black/black sell very quickly so you need to make decisions fast.

If you are patient you should be able to find 1-2 owner private car with < 50K miles.

VinceB

SF65-

Thanks, torn decision.... with a family to consider thinking a E63 might be a tad more practical.... about the same pricing as an SL even a 55 on a good deal.

I actually like the weird colors - pewter/stone. Seems like Black would just be a complete maintenance (washing-detailing) hog. Even though I love a clean car, if I don't get to it for a week or three, black shows all.

65, must pull like a rocket ship- enjoy!

GFEAR

you want to look like every one else with a black or silver one? not me.....

sf65

Thanks, yeah 30 mph to anything is just a blast.

Didn't realize you can get '07 E63 for that little money.
We have a 3yr old, and my wife refuses to allow me to buy a car seat
If you need a 4 seater the CL is another option, they depreciate like a rock. Oakland Benz has '05 CL65 for $62K and I'm sure you get a better deal from a private party if you are willing to travel.

The best deal are those 600 engines, unless you care about MPG.

Pewter and Red aren't weird colors IMO, the former is in the silver/gray department. I was referring to stuff like gold or that odd blue they made in '05.

My black looks fine without that much hassle but I'm not **** retentive about the car, it doesn't have to look perfect all the time.