TRD Man wrote:Prices didn't increase at all when the Frontal Impact Laws were introduced.
I agree and disagree. Yes, prices didn't go up, but I would argue on the basis of age car prices have been rising over time.
I.e. in 1999 my mate bought a 10 year old 1989 Honda Civic Si, mags, exhaust, 90kms for $4.5k from a dealer. Its now 2007; and you would be hard pressed to find a 10 year old equivalent Honda Civic for the same price.
1996 BZ Corolla's were going for roughly $9k in 2001. Its now 2007, and the now equivalent 2002 Fielder Z or RunX Z's are starting at $15k. Even if you take out inflation thats a rise.
I guess the economy has been strong the last few years and there are probably a few other reasons contributing to the 'rise', but I still attibute a part of it to the frontal impact legislation. I know a few people like me who have owned their cars for 3ish years, and finding they are not losing much money when selling (like I said in my earlier post - I gained $300).