Price Variation by Season?

MrClean · #1 (**permalink**) 07-26-2010, 08:25 PM

I was hoping someone with more knowledge then I, with regards to the automotive market, could help me figure something out.

I'm in the market for a new car. I've decided on a 2000-2003 Ford Excursion with a 7.3L, with hopefully less then 75k miles. I've been pricing for awhile, but am now in a position to buy.

Anyway, over the last two years it seems during the cooler months, prices were at their low point, and are now currently at their highest. I've always been finicky getting exactly what I wanted with a car. I once drove 8 hours to pick up a 98 Cobra. I'm willing to go even further for this, so my pool of listing is large, making this observation unlikely to be a fluke. The variation is also rather large. The last two winters, I could have picked up what I'm looking for, for about $15,000. Right now, with that mileage, around $23,000. That's a pretty big difference.

My question is, what is the best explanation for this? Is this reflective of diesel fuel prices? Is it simply because the summer months are when people take the most long distance trips, and this vehicle is ideal for those? The economy is worse, so I doubt the low prices the last two winters are from people who just couldn't afford a gas guzzler.

I'm in no rush, especially if prices will drop by 25%-50% four months from now. Is there anyone with an informed opinion that could advise?

MrClean · #2 (**permalink**) 07-26-2010, 08:28 PM

Sorry wrong section. Where's the delete thread option?

03_Turbo7.3 · #3 (**permalink**) 07-26-2010, 08:42 PM

its all good,

Welcome..

Yes your right..summer months always drive prices easier to sell..harder to sell in winter so they drop the prices to move inventory..happens everywhere

also low mileage 7.3s are becoming rare..and sought after