WhoseGeneration wrote:Hmm, I want a Ford Focus RS, there's a year waiting list but some are currently available at a premium from official Ford dealers and independents.
So, to pay an excess or not?
I have offered below asking to two Ford dealers, yet to have a reply.
I thought my son was quite sensible to buy one (and he has a history of buying a car for full list and selling at a profit after enjoying it for a while).
I would be surprised if you get one below list any time in the near future. At a list price of about £35k with toys it still looks like good value against anything with the same capability.
If you look at previous generations of the top Focus they have held their value particularly well. Personally, I expect that this one will too, and that if you buy one for full list (or very slightly above) the percent depreciation you will suffer over your ownership of the car will be no worse and possibly better than you would suffer on a regular car bought at a substantial discount to list. I gather they have said they will make 18,000, and if they stick to a limited number that will be very good for long term values.
I am interested to know what it would replace and what you would consider as alternatives. Personally, and relevant to your username, I am not convinced that it is a car for my generation - I once had an Evo 6 and in many ways this is an improved execution of a similar car, but nowadays I think I value looks, charm, and quality of finishes over outright capability, and would be more likely to choose a Golf R, Audi S3 or M2.