Ray did indeed get $8000 for his SVT Contour. I believe the chap that bought my car paid around $10K for it. I know for a fact that Campbell's had it on their lot for only a day or two, the price I saw on line was $10,980.
So, they didn't make an absolute killing on my trade in, but still, considering what I paid for that car a few years back...
The simple truth about used car dealers these days is that for the most part, they are over stocked and demand for late model used cars is in the toilet.
Why buy a two year old car for $15K, if you can get the same thing brand new with 0% for 5 years for about $20K.
So, most dealers will have to unload a car at slim profit if it has been sitting a while.
If that 99 SVT for 18-something is still around in late summer, I'm sure they'll be singing a different tune.
That being said (written), I also know that someone who has a real hard-on for an SVT Contour (much like I did when I bought mine) will salivate all over it, and sign the purchase papers and leave a blank cheque.
I know that every car I've bought, I've probably gotten too little in trade and paid too much for the new one.
So, if I ever buy another USED car, I'm going to be absolutely ruthless and low-ball with my offers. Bottom line is if a dealer needs to unload it, they'll take a break-even or even slight loss deal to move the vehicle.
May sound mean, but too many people are paying too much and getting screwed on trades.
