Market Report July 2024: Summer Calm in the Used Car Market
July 2024: Market Overview
High summer traditionally brings a quiet phase in the used car market. Many dealers and buyers are on vacation, which dampens activity – but also offers opportunities for attentive buyers.
Current Prices by Brand
BMW
| Model | Average | Change | Listings |
|---|---|---|---|
| E38 7 Series | €15,120 | +2% | 45 |
| E39 5 Series | €7,580 | +2% | 85 |
| E46 3 Series | €6,420 | +1% | 152 |
| E39 M5 | €31,800 | +2% | 14 |
Mercedes-Benz
| Model | Average | Change | Listings |
|---|---|---|---|
| W140 S-Class | €12,950 | +2% | 32 |
| W210 E-Class | €5,380 | +3% | 75 |
| W124 E-Class | €11,680 | +3% | 36 |
Audi
| Model | Average | Change | Listings |
|---|---|---|---|
| B5 A4/S4 | €5,750 | +1% | 62 |
| C6 A6 | €9,380 | -1% | 88 |
| RS4 B5 | €42,200 | +2% | 7 |
Seasonal Analysis
Typical July Patterns
July shows characteristic features:
- Reduced activity: -22% vs. annual average
- Longer listing times: Vehicles stay online longer
- Negotiation room: Dealers more flexible on prices
- Private sales: Vacationer quick sales
Supply Development
| Category | Change | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Total listings | -8% | Vacation pause |
| New listings | -15% | Dealers on holiday |
| Sales closures | -18% | Buyers on vacation |
| Convertibles | -5% | Seasonal high |
Top Opportunities of the Month
Taking Advantage of Summer Calm
July offers special chances for patient buyers:
BMW E46 330i – Average €6,800
- Sporty inline-six
- Less competition in summer
- Negotiation room up to 10%
Mercedes W210 E320 – Average €5,600
- V6 comfort for little money
- Dealers want to sell before vacation
- Good selection available
Premium Segment
BMW E38 740i – Average €14,200
- V8 flagship at summer price
- Fewer competing buyers
- Thorough inspection possible
Mercedes W140 S500 – Average €15,800
- Luxury sedan in summer slump
- Time for extended test drives
- Dealers open to negotiation
Market Trends July
Current Observations
Stable:
- Youngtimer prices holding level
- M/AMG/RS models in demand
- Well-documented vehicles
Slightly declining:
- Diesel models (seasonal)
- High-priced daily drivers
- High-mileage vehicles
Regional Differences
| Region | July Trend | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Bavaria | stable | Tourism effect |
| Coastal regions | +3% | Vacationers searching |
| Major cities | -5% | Residents on vacation |
| Rural areas | stable | Less seasonal |
Mileage and Price
July analysis shows clear correlations:
| Vehicle Age | Mileage Correlation | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 15-20 years | -0.72 | Mileage very important |
| 20-25 years | -0.58 | Condition more important |
| 25+ years | -0.42 | History decisive |
July Buying Guide
Advantages of Summer Purchase
- Less competition for interesting vehicles
- More negotiation room with dealers
- Time for thorough inspection without pressure
- Test drives in optimal weather
What to Watch
- Vacation sales: Quick processing sometimes required
- Standing damage: Check on long-standing vehicles
- AC test: Ideal weather for testing
August 2024 Forecast
For the coming month we expect:
- Continuation of summer lull until mid-August
- Slight revival at vacation end
- Stable prices without major movements
- Convertible prices at yearly peak
Recommendations
Buy Now
- BMW E39 5 Series – Use summer slump discounts
- Mercedes W210 E-Class – Undervalued in July
- Audi B5 A4 – Good supply available
Better to Wait
- Convertibles until September/October
- High-priced collector vehicles until autumn
- SUV segment until winter start
Dealer Tips
July Negotiation Strategy
Buyer arguments:
- “Close before vacation”
- “Longer standing time = value loss”
- “Cash payment possible”
Realistic discounts:
- Dealers: 5-10% below asking price
- Private: 8-15% below asking price
Conclusion
July 2024 offers good buying opportunities despite – or precisely because of – the summer calm. Those with time and patience find attractive offers from negotiation-ready sellers.
Prices remain stable with slight upward tendency for classics. Diesel vehicles and high-mileage models show weakness by contrast.
All data based on our continuous market analysis. As of: July 29, 2024