QuestionI'm looking at a 2000 S70 turbo with 70k miles for $9000, vs. a 2001 S80 with 100k miles, a new transmission and perfect dealer maintenance for $8500. Questions:
Is it better to go lower miles, or the bit higher miles and excellent maintenance? (General philosophy here, barring an engine inspection).
I'd like to ask your advice to negotiate the best deal? These are both at dealerships.
And any other insights you might provide would be most welcome.
THANKS A TON!!
Julie
AnswerHey Julie thanks for writing!
This is a tuff one... I must ask you.. what is wrong with the s70 with 70k miles such that it isn't in perfect maintenance? and who said the other was in perfect maintenance? the dealership? think about who is trying to sell the car, of course they will say that... a new transmission at 100k on a 2001? thats fishy... seems like some one had a heavy foot... if thats the case.. probably means it wont be long before its burning oil... 100k on a volvo is alot... things start breaking about that times.. and things are going wrong that any inspection will miss... if there isn't anything wrong with the 2000.. it seems like a better choice... 70k is a lot safer than 100k when it comes to cars like these as they can be expensive to repair... and the one year age difference is negatable...
As for negotiation... the thing i tell everyone is: Research, research, research... know the car you are buying better than the dealer does, know what its worth (nada.com,kbb.com), what similar cars are selling for (autotrader.com, cars.com, local classifieds, etc..), and any/all things wrong with it you can (having someone who is mechanically inclined check it out). After that... you should be able to set a max price you are willing to pay, NEVER tell the dealer how much you have and how much you want to spend... offer a price ~1000 or so under what you want to spend (also factor in tax,tag,title.. or deal in out the door pricing).. make them argue up from your offer.. not you argue down from the sticker... dont be afraid to leave if they don't come down... some dealers are stubborn and will wait for someone to pay too much, and some will realize you are serious about leaving and will either call you or run after you... act confident even if you arent... if they think you know what you are doing, they wont play as many games with you... never go over your max price... and you should come away with a good deal.. or no car.. either one is better than getting taken for a ride..
good luck! and feel free to reply with more info on the cars.. if something is wrong with the 2000 or not... would really help...
