IS1

Might be going to look at a 2001 E55 with 36k miles on it. Asking price is $28k and is good condition. I have a trade in of a 05 evo so I'll be lucky to get out even. What items should I look at on the e55? It is a 1 owner Florida car with a clean car faw at a BMW dealership.
Thanks

Taximan1

$28k is way too much for that car, even with the miles.... That car should be in the low $20's..

Taximan1

If that dealer, had to off that car at the auction... They would probably get about 19-21 for it..

r_liebo

These cars are pretty bulletproof. Other than the obvious stuff, including a thorough pre-purchase inspection, check for rust and any burnt out pixels on the dash.

As for price, it all depends. A well cared for individual sold car with a clean history and a warranty warrants a higher price, and ending in the mid to even high twenties isn't a bad deal. Also, where you are located matters, unless you are willing to travel. Some markets are softer than others (where I am, you would NEVER get that car in the low 20s, from anyone unless it was a salvage title -- I've seen several clean low miles 02s with asking prices over $35K in the past 6 months, and the only cars listed around $20 have well in excess of 50K miles). Then you have options and color. Funky colors like gold often sell at cheaper prices than a more common silver or black.
That being said, if it was an auction car and has no dealer warranty left, price should definitely be discounted from $28K, even if it was a one owner vehicle. Auction price for that car is a well below $28K.

Howellja

I agree with above. Some markets are much softer than others. You should be able to get a better deal if you are willing to travel or ship. Check the records on the car, see where it has spent most of its life. I also believe you get better treatment from the MB dealership service department if it is a car you bought from them, or that they sold/serviced in the past. I think if the car is clean, has great records, is the color combo you want, and has a warranty even if it is third party 28K isnt bad!