Market Report July 2025: Summer Lull in the Premium Used Car Market
July 2025: Market Overview
The height of summer shows its typical effects on the used car market. While many potential buyers are on vacation, strategic buyers can find interesting opportunities.
Current Prices by Brand
BMW
| Model | Average | Change | Listings |
|---|---|---|---|
| E38 7 Series | €16,915 | +1% | 48 |
| E39 5 Series | €8,147 | stable | 89 |
| E46 3 Series | €7,056 | -2% | 172 |
| E39 M5 | €35,200 | +2% | 15 |
Mercedes-Benz
| Model | Average | Change | Listings |
|---|---|---|---|
| W140 S-Class | €14,234 | +1% | 35 |
| W210 E-Class | €5,892 | -1% | 78 |
| W124 E-Class | €12,680 | +2% | 39 |
Audi
| Model | Average | Change | Listings |
|---|---|---|---|
| B5 A4/S4 | €6,450 | +1% | 68 |
| C6 A6 | €10,292 | stable | 95 |
| RS4 B5 | €46,200 | +2% | 8 |
Seasonal Market Dynamics
Why July Offers Special Opportunities
July is traditionally one of the quietest months in the used car trade. Our analysis shows:
- Reduced buyer activity: -22% compared to annual average
- Dealers under pressure: Standing times increase, willingness to negotiate grows
- Less competition: Many interested parties are away on vacation
Listing Development
| Category | Change vs. June | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Convertibles | +35% | Peak season for listings |
| Sedans | -5% | Slight decline |
| Estates | stable | Family vehicles still in demand |
| SUV alternatives | +8% | Vacation time drives supply |
Price Analysis: Winners and Losers
Price Increases in July
The continuous appreciation of youngtimers continues:
BMW E38 7 Series reaches a new high at €16,915. The V8 luxury of the 1990s is increasingly perceived as a collector’s item. Particularly sought after:
- 750iL with V12 engine
- Individual specifications
- Vehicles under 100,000 km
Mercedes W124 shows further growth at +2%. The legendary quality of this generation is becoming well known.
Price Declines
BMW E46 3 Series loses slightly in value (-2%). High availability and the transition from used car to youngtimer is currently pressing prices. A good entry opportunity for buyers.
Detailed Analysis: Summer Market 2025
The Convertible Paradox
An interesting phenomenon: Despite being high summer, convertible prices often don’t drop as expected. Our explanation:
| Factor | Effect |
|---|---|
| Emotional buying impulse | Higher in summer |
| Supply increases | Many want to sell |
| Purchasing power reduced | Vacation expenses |
| Net effect | Prices stagnate |
Recommendation for Convertible Buyers
The best time for convertible purchases is not summer, but late autumn (October-November). Currently prices are still at summer levels.
Mileage Correlation
Our July data shows interesting patterns:
| Model Type | Price/km Correlation | Average Price |
|---|---|---|
| E39 5 Series | -0.78 | €8,147 |
| W210 E-Class | -0.85 | €5,892 |
| C6 A6 | -0.72 | €10,292 |
The high negative correlation for the W210 E-Class shows that mileage is particularly price-relevant here. Buyers should grab vehicles with low mileage.
Top Recommendations July 2025
Buy Now
-
BMW E39 5 Series – At €8,147 average price, the E39 offers the best value for money in the premium segment. The M54 engine is virtually indestructible.
-
Mercedes W210 E-Class – At just €5,892, the cheapest entry into the premium mid-size class. Ideal summer car for long distances.
-
Audi C6 A6 – Stability at €10,292 shows the bottom has been reached. Modern technology at a fair price.
Recommended to Wait
- Convertibles: Wait until October-November
- M and AMG models: Overheated market, correction possible
- SUV alternatives: Autumn brings better offers
Regional Price Differences
| Region | Average vs. National Average |
|---|---|
| Bavaria | +8% |
| Baden-Württemberg | +5% |
| North Rhine-Westphalia | -3% |
| Eastern Germany | -7% |
| Northern Germany | -2% |
Buyers from southern German regions can save considerably by searching in other federal states.
Outlook August 2025
For the coming month we expect:
- Continuation of summer lull until mid-August
- Slight revival from end of holidays
- Stable prices for most models
- Convertible prices begin to fall
Conclusion
July 2025 offers strategic buyers good opportunities. Reduced competition and increased willingness of dealers to negotiate can lead to attractive deals. The BMW E39 and Mercedes W210 in particular currently offer excellent value for money.
All data based on our continuous market analysis. As of: July 28, 2025