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7/25/01
- Hello -
I have a 1986 300E which I've been thinking of
selling -- too many cars,
kids soon to be in college, etc. This car is in excellent condition inside
and out; perfect, really, except for two little "parking lot
dings" on the
rear passenger's side door. Although I didn't buy it new, I am the third
owner, and have all service records and books.
The car has just shy of 70,000 (well-documented)
miles. The finish is
"Champagne," with tan interior. It is a 5-speed manual, which I
understand is
rather rare, and everything is fully functional -- climate control, cruise
control, Becker stereo (recently replaced with OEM unit), etc.
What, in your estimation, is this car worth? Is the
manual transmission
a plus or a hindrance to its sale? I've heard different opinions. How do you
suggest I sell this car, should I decide to do so?
Thanks,
Randall
- Thanks for the email. I have only worked on and or seen
two other cars than yours. They are rare indeed. There are also pro's and
con's to selling the vehicle like you have heard. The color of the car is
not really popular anymore, we have a hard time selling that color and
another we call losers blue, that's the silver blue color they used in the
80's. There are still people however who do like that color. You have to
realize most people looking for a 300E are most likely a younger couple
looking for a car for him or her, most of the time a stick does hinder the
sale and also lowers the value of the car. Most dealers would not touch it
to resell. The other side of the coin is that they are rare and do fill a
niche that allot of MB owners are looking for, I have driven the 300E with a
stick and they are allot of fun. If the miles are correct and the books are
good, with only 70k miles on it, it should look like new. If you take a
normal 1986 300E and sold it today the average miles would be 225,000. The
car would be worth about $2000. Your car on the other hand has significantly
lower miles, good service, no rust etc... I would list it for 7500.00 and
hope to get 5500.00. You never know who will want a stick. I would place an
add in the MB club magazine, list it for sale for free on the autotrader.com
web site and wait and see. I would offer to take the car on consignment but
I think Chicago area is a little too far away. If you have a picture, email
it to me. I will do some asking around and see about any interest that be
around here. Thanks again JON
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