Sean, it is the second part of your post that is spot-on. Mercedes are one of the worst car models as far as the second hand car market is concerned. We are not talking quality of offerings etrc. etc. Just look at the crowded segment between three thousand and, say twelve thousand dollars. It is frightening, especially if you're trying to sell a 'bread and butter' car - there are literally hundreds to choose from, and they are fantastic value from a buyer's point of view. I mean, it is just ridiculous.
As has been stated probably thousands of times, just about most can afford a used Mercedes - to buy. However, can you afford to keep it ? That's the big question. Furthermore, it ain't gonna get any better - the new cars of today (Mercedes) are going to join the second hand brigade three years down the track, and because new cars are selling so well, (Mercedes, that is) there is just going to be a glut of used Mercedes that very few people will want to buy second hand. Sure, you will get the odd exception to this conandrum, and I am thinking of the cars that Helmet sells, that will fetch good money, but that part is all about relativity and personal persona. That's right, persona. Regards Styria