Special Edition cars lose more at resale

Springing for that limited edition model with the special paint or custom performance parts may seem like a good idea at buying time but when it comes to offloading your car at trade-in you may be in for a little surprise. Despite usually costing more, when it comes time to sell, special edition models are more often than not worth less as a percentage of their original price than when compared with standard models.

The findings are the result of the latest Kelley Blue Book study, which looked at 14 different special edition vehicles produced since 2001. The study found that in all cases the special edition models lost more value than the standard models in both dollar and percentage terms. One of the worst offenders was Nissan’s 2005 350Z 35th Anniverary Edition, which only retained 65% of its original value compared to the standard car which retains 71%.
Read Article

aarononymous - 2/3/2008 10:43:52 PM

+1 Boost

I know my GTI 337 edition (similar to European 25th Anny) isn't worth much more than a regular GTI, if at all.

EnnNorak - 2/4/2008 12:18:29 AM

-5 Boost

This article speaks the truth. That is why I buy only standard models and not necessarily even the top model which is usually decked out with overpriced optional equipment packaged in a way that forces the customer to accept a whole bunch of useless frivolous stuff just to get the one item he wants.

drew630 - 2/3/2008 11:31:07 PM

-4 Boost

Unless its a Corvette, Camaro, Mustang, or one of the Dodges.

S4cabriofoxone - 2/3/2008 11:50:03 PM

0 Boost

We know.

CBR2200 - 2/4/2008 12:15:24 AM

-3 Boost

Are you serious? OMFG, what a revelation.

JUGNU - 2/4/2008 2:29:25 PM

+2 Boost

"65% of its original value compared to the standard car which retains 71%"

Yeah that's right.

Let’s say the original price of 350Z was 32K and Special edition version was another 2-3K expensive say 35K.

Nissan 350Z, 65/100 multiply by 32000 = 22720.

Nissan 350Z Limited Edition, 71/100 multiply by 35000 = 22750.

See after 2 to 3 years both cars are going for nearly same amount.

As People don't value the extra sticker or badge or minor tweak in the dash of a Used 2 to 3 years old limited model car much. In fact most not at all. Because for a second hand car the major considerations are model year, mileage and the condition of the car.

That's why u see Manufacturers make only few special limited edition cars. They are especially made for a group of potential customers who wants their cars to be little unique.

JUGNU