Oldsmobile/Buick: olds resale value, oldsmobile silhouette, smart consumers

Question
Looking at a new Silhouette.  Will I be sorry when I go to trade this in since Olds is closing?

Answer
Roger,
Well it is hard to predict the market down the road. Traditionally, when models cease to be made the value doesn't fluctuate much, mileage and condition still is the main factor. However, oldsmobile's have always brought higher numbers. The Oldsmobile Silhouette is a quality vehicle. Actually, better built than the pontiac and chevy offerings.
Oldsmobile has been offering incintives and pricing on it's entire line. Not because their trying to dump an obsolete product, but because GM is wanting to consolidate, and meet dealership affiliate deadlines. Pontiac will take over servicing of the Olds line from what I've heard. For buyers this is an opportune time to take advantage on one of GM's top of the line manufactuers. Though the silhouette is built on the same platform as the pontiac and chevy offerings, the quality is a world apart. Media scare tactics have some consumers hesitant about purchasing an olds. Horror stories like "no one will work on them", warranty work getting done, and even parts for these cars being non-existent in the near future. Far from the truth. Meanwhile, smart consumers seize the moment on a great deal on a great product. I doubt that thet the resale value will deminish drastically by the time you are ready to trade in. Personally, I would sell on a private basis when the time comes. As for olds closing, the collector market is heating up. Already, cars like the Aurora will be highly sought after. Go back many years when the toronado was discontinued. Today those cars go for double their original sticker price in great condition. Cutlass's ten years old still sell for about $6,000 on the used market. Though it's difficult to say how the silhouette
will do, one things for sure, there will always be a demand for quality mini vans. I doubt you'll be sorry down the road. Thanks for the question. I can understand your concerns. Purchasing any vehicle can be traumatic. Ray