Found a brand new '05 - black (regular not obsidian), pretty stripped - 6 disk changer and navi only. Dealer is willing to go to 77,500 (plus state tax and title). How does that sound?

 

sounds like I would like to know your dealer! Nice price for a brand new car...

 

What's MSRP on the car?

The only thing I'd worry about on a stripper is resale. I think most people buying in this price range expect loaded (or nearly) cars.

 

MSRP is $84,860. Your resale point is well-taken since I'll probably only keep it 2-3 years. On the other hand, the car is pretty loaded with standard equipment.

I'm also looking at an 04, 18,000 miles, Pana, Navi, Lights Keyless, 6 disk for $66K. While I would prefer the Bi-Xenons, I dont care about Pana or Keyless and a spread of $11,500 between the 04 and new 05 seems pretty reasonable.

I'm going to pull the trigger soon (hopefully) so all opinions welcome.

Thanks

 

My opinion - If you have driven a car with xenon lights, don't buy a car like this without them. Keep looking for the right car. They are out there.

 

I Would Buy The New 05 E55 And Just Get Steve To Install The Bi-xenons.

 

If you aren't willing to wait for one with factory bi-xenons, I'd do this. I had my bi-xenons retrofitted and couldnt be happier. However, you'd be quite surprised at how good the halogen projector lights really are.

 

Thanks for all the input. The dealer is offering to put in "blue halogen" bulbs if I want them. Anybody know what these are, the pros/cons and whether its a good idea?

 

Don't bother. All it does is make it look like you are "faking" real xenon lights and can actually reduce lighting output. If you want the "look" of real xenons, just go all the way. Trust me, while they are no xenons, the factory halogens will surprise you with their clear light pattern.

 

If you are keeping the car for 2 or 3 years, you should lease it and then not have to worry about the resale.

If you have to think about getting an option, you probably don't need it.

 

Why buy a "one year old" model car? That car is already depreciated 12% without it leaving the showroom. It is also stripped, although I understand your disike of some of the options. I can almost guarantee you can order an 06 with just the options you want and still get $5k off sticker. If you are serious about pursuing this angle, I would be happy to call the GSM of dealer in Boston area, who would be happy to deal