Retiree seeking crystal ball Sept/Oct '09 Z4 pricing

Currently I own an '03 Z4 with 67k miles and I am thinking about buying an '09 this fall as they come off three year leases. Do you think I can snag a certified one from a dealer for $32k if it is a 3.0 automatic (no NAV) and modest options? I am in the Austin/San antonio area. Thanx y'all.

I don't think the E89 model hit the market until spring of 2009 so you'll have to wait close to a year from now to get a 3 year lease return.

Correct the E89 was released for initial US sales in mid May 2009.

You will likely be looking at something a little higher (my guess). I'm in SATX and just ordered a new 3.5is after passing on a few used Z4's at Manheim. (I have a dealer license to support my car addiction) The lease deals on new cars were better than wholesale pricing on used (relative).

'09 3.0 cars are going for $35-36k +/- at Manheim right now. While you might expect values to drop heading into the winter season, remember that there are auction, transport, and sales costs to add. Close to $37-39k might be reasonable come late Fall. (there are a lot of the black on red launch cars out there - they have a 6sp MT, and will be the least expensive)

Originally Posted by jnmit12

You will likely be looking at something a little higher (my guess). I'm in SATX and just ordered a new 3.5is after passing on a few used Z4's at Manheim. (I have a dealer license to support my car addiction) The lease deals on new cars were better than wholesale pricing on used (relative).

'09 3.0 cars are going for $35-36k +/- at Manheim right now. While you might expect values to drop heading into the winter season, remember that there are auction, transport, and sales costs to add. Close to $37-39k might be reasonable come late Fall. (there are a lot of the black on red launch cars out there - they have a 6sp MT, and will be the least expensive)

That's crazy money for a used car. I seem to recall some 'festers who bought brand new punched cars (2009 3.0) for only $40K. If you can wait until there is more inventory, deals will be there. There are also a lot of Z4 garage queens with low mileage. When I bought my 2006 3.0si CPO with only 15K miles on the OD in 2009 it was about $27K. While the new models will command a higher price, it should not stay that high when there is some flow of inventory.

I would try and wait until the 2012 Z4's hit the dealers. Might be some bargains on a new one. Or at least a better used volume. Good luck.

Originally Posted by mikesevel

Currently I own an '03 Z4 with 67k miles and I am thinking about buying an '09 this fall as they come off three year leases. Do you think I can snag a certified one from a dealer for $32k if it is a 3.0 automatic (no NAV) and modest options? I am in the Austin/San antonio area. Thanx y'all.

Yes, I think that's very reasonable. You might even find a 2010 in that range if you're patient and flexible on the options. You're timing is good; with convertibles, always buy in the fall, sell in the spring. Keep an eye on AutoTrader.com.

Good luck!