New to the Forum and hoping this is the "right" forum and location for my questions. Only Audi's ever in the family was a 2001 A6 and a 1975 Audi Fox (that car was unfortunately a nightmare.)

But back to current times and my question. I am searching for a used all wheel drive performance sedan. I have a budget between $30-$40K which seems to leave me with the 2008/2009 Audi S6, 2010/2011 Mercedes E550 and 2011 BMW 550Xi. Each car has their own positives/negatives. While no car is perfect, I believe I would likely be happy with any of them. Of course opinions vary of which car is the "best" by enthusiasts based on badge preference, specs and ride.

I understand the S6 is the rarest to find, but am having difficulty with the price differential I am seeing with the three cars. Overall, the asking prices of the Mercedes and BMW models seem to be in-line or lower than the Kelly Blue Book (KBB) buying through a dealer for clean and accident free cars that still have warranty left (2010 or 2011 models), which also then allow for purchase of extended warranty. The S6 does not seem to follow that premiss. 2008 KBB Audi S6 fair market value shows about $25K, but prices seem to be about $29K. For 2009 models, KBB shows $33K, but seeing actual prices more in $38-40K range. 2010 models, KBB shows $40K, but seeing actual prices more around $50K. What am I missing?? Is the rarity driving up asking prices? I will admit that I have not driven one yet as they are tough to find (one just showed up in MN recently), so perhaps I will understand after driving?

Overall, I am having a tough time spending more money on an S6 for a 2-3 year older car that has no warranty left and retailed at about the same money. Seems the resale on the Audi's are much better (even thought KBB does not seem to recognize it), but I drive my vehicles for a long time with very few miles, so that is not that important to me. Just looking for a fun, sporty, comfortable ride that I can enjoy for many years.

Appreciate any advice that can be offered. Thanks!

 

Rarity can, and generally does artificially elevate anythings' worth, in any/every market. For Audi the A4 and its variants are the most popular with the A3 and its variants gaining in popularity since coming to the American market. The A6 and it's sisters are somewhat invisible, here.

Moving this to teh S6 section, for a more sympathetic audience.

Good luck in your decision-making process.

 

Thanks for moving to the proper section. Will look forward to hearing some input from others.