July Market Report: Volume Models Gain Ground
July Market Overview
As we head into high summer, the classic and youngtimer market looks more divided than it did in June. While the overall market remains stable, the month-over-month picture shows a clear split: high-volume mid-range models are edging up, while a few premium and investment-grade classics are giving back some of their spring gains.
Availability remains healthy at 40 to 90 listings per core model - the market is liquid and offers buyers good choice during the holiday season. The tables below show current average prices (as of June 26, 2026) along with the change versus our June report.
BMW Market Report
The BMW range is moving in two directions - volume firms up while individual classics correct:
| Model | Average | Trend | Min | Max | Listings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| E38 7 Series | €18,599 | ↑ +2.4% | €1,800 | €58,500 | 80 |
| E39 5 Series | €7,173 | ↓ −9.0% | €1,100 | €24,990 | 84 |
| E46 3 Series | €8,631 | ↑ +9.4% | €1,200 | €25,800 | 65 |
| E30 3 Series | €19,821 | ↓ −6.4% | €3,800 | €52,900 | 68 |
| Z3 | €15,284 | → −1.3% | €3,800 | €52,750 | 88 |
| E39 M5 | €34,780 | → 0.0% | €22,222 | €41,000 | 4 |
The E46 3 Series posts the strongest gain at +9.4%, confirming its status as a sought-after entry-level youngtimer. The E38 flagship holds its upward trend at €18,599. By contrast, the E39 has softened by 9% after a strong spring - anyone after a solid all-rounder will find good opportunities among the 84 listings. The Z3 remains the most available model with 88 offers, making it ideal for a spontaneous summer purchase.
Mercedes-Benz Market Report
Mercedes shows classic stability at the top and a clear gain for the volume E-Class:
| Model | Average | Trend | Min | Max | Listings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| W124 E-Class | €14,387 | ↑ +7.9% | €1,400 | €81,900 | 90 |
| W140 S-Class | €15,226 | → −0.8% | €3,850 | €45,000 | 87 |
| W210 E-Class | €6,922 | ↑ +2.5% | €1,222 | €49,500 | 74 |
| R107 SL | €34,269 | ↓ −3.4% | €2,900 | €79,995 | 67 |
| W116 S-Class | €17,524 | ↓ −9.9% | €1,800 | €78,500 | 53 |
With 90 listings, the W124 is not only the highest-volume model in the entire report but also a clear winner: +7.9% month-over-month underlines the enduring popularity of the “last real” E-Class. The W140 holds its level above €15,000. Notable is the correction in the W116, which has eased by almost 10% after spring highs - opening attractive entry points for fans of the first-generation S-Class.
Audi Market Report
Audi’s volume models improve while the RS investment tier corrects moderately:
| Model | Average | Trend | Min | Max | Listings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| B5 A4 | €10,979 | ↑ +5.3% | €1,100 | €49,890 | 43 |
| C4 A6 | €9,300 | ↑ +6.8% | €1,500 | €29,000 | 46 |
| D2 A8 | €9,998 | ↓ −4.5% | €1,090 | €34,990 | 36 |
| RS4 B5 | €48,559 | ↓ −3.8% | €20,000 | €85,990 | 15 |
| RS2 | €55,329 | ↓ −4.1% | €3,590 | €92,000 | 26 |
Audi’s base range shows strength: the B5 A4 (+5.3%) and C4 A6 (+6.8%) both gain noticeably, confirming growing appreciation for these solid Avant and sedan classics. The investment tier around the RS2 and RS4 B5 eases back after the previous months’ peaks - both remain firmly in five-figure collector territory above €48,000 and €55,000 respectively, with just 15 and 26 cars available.
Seasonal Patterns and Mileage Analysis
July brings typical high-summer behaviour: convertibles and roadsters take the spotlight as buyers plan the holiday season. Average mileage figures continue to reveal clear patterns:
- Youngtimers (under 30 years): mostly 150,000-215,000 km - a normal usage profile (E39 ~215,000 km, B5 ~146,000 km)
- Classics (over 30 years): often lower thanks to enthusiast care (E30 ~145,000 km, R107 ~147,000 km)
- Investment-grade (M and RS models): markedly lower mileage, but the smallest production numbers
The condition spread stays heterogeneous: mass-market models like the W124 and E39 are available across a wide price range, while premium variants show more consistent condition at higher prices.
Outlook for August
For August we expect:
- Continued strength in high-volume mid-range classics (W124, E46, B5, C4)
- Ongoing consolidation in select premium classics (W116, E30) - entry opportunities for the patient
- Stable investment values in RS and M models at high levels, with limited availability
Summer demand for convertibles and roadsters (Z3, R107) is likely to stay high, suggesting no short-term price concessions in that segment.
Buy Now, Wait, or Watch?
Buy now if you…
- Are looking for an E39 as an all-rounder (attractively priced after −9%, 84 listings to choose from)
- Have your eye on a W116 as a first S-Class classic (the correction opens an entry point)
Wait until…
- You find a pristine W124 or E46 (prices are rising, so patience and negotiation pay off here)
- You are specifically after an RS2 or RS4 B5 - the slight correction may continue
Watch…
- The B5 and C4 trend - both on the rise, an early entry could pay off
- The E38 flagship - a steady gain, but increasingly ambitious valuations
July is a good time for selective buying: those who understand the market’s split will find opportunities both among correcting premium classics and the still-affordable volume models.