Used Car Market 2026: Outlook and Predictions
The Used Car Market in the New Year
2026 begins with exciting developments in the German used car market. Our analysis of over 2,000 vehicle listings reveals clear trends for BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi.
Current Average Prices
Our data from January 2026 shows the following market situation:
BMW Classics:
- E38 7 Series (1994-2001): Average €16,915 – prices rising
- E39 5 Series (1995-2004): Average €8,147
- E39 M5: Average €30,562 – strong appreciation
Mercedes-Benz:
- W140 S-Class: Average approx. €15,700 (Source: CLASSIC.COM)
- W210 E-Class: Stable prices in the mid-range segment
Audi:
- RS4 B5: Average €47,447 – collector’s market
- B5 A4/S4: Average €9,525 – upward trend
Trends for 2026
1. Youngtimer Boom Continues
Vehicles from the 1990s and early 2000s continue to see increasing demand. The BMW E38 and Mercedes W140 are considered the “last true” representatives of their class – before the electronics era.
2. M and AMG Models as Investments
Performance variants show the strongest price appreciation:
- BMW E39 M5: +6-8% annually (Source: Hagerty)
- Audi RS4 B5: Top sale at $175,000 internationally
3. Best Time to Buy
According to our seasonal analysis, January is one of the best months for buying used cars. Demand is low after the holidays, and dealers are willing to negotiate.
Recommendations
For Buyers:
- Act now on E38, E39, W140 – prices will continue to rise
- Prefer well-maintained examples with full service history
- Mileage matters less than condition for classics
For Sellers:
- Spring and autumn are the best selling seasons
- Documentation and history significantly increase selling price
Conclusion
2026 promises to be another interesting year for German automobile enthusiasts. Prices for well-maintained classics are expected to continue rising, while modern used cars remain stable.
Visit our model pages for current price data on your desired vehicle.
Data source: Own market analysis based on German vehicle marketplaces, as of January 2026