What Car? Q&A - Is my part-exchange price too low?

Q: I am quite disappointed with the apparent residual value of my Y-reg BMW 325i SE - my local dealer has only offered me a figure of £8000 against a new 320i SE.

This is despite my 39,000-mile example being metallic silver and having a CD multichanger and boot spoiler. I paid almost £25,000 when the car was new. Is it a good deal?
David Bird

A: Assuming your car is in a suitable condition for its age, has been correctly maintained and no accident damage, we reckon you could make up to around £11,000 with a private sale or get up to £9000 on a trade-in.

Our advice is to try a few other dealers, see what they say then play them off one another. Remember, dealers could offer you a great price on your part-exchange, but then sell you a new car for more than you should pay for it.

So focus on the cost to change – the price of the new car minus the price you get for your part-ex. If you are considering buying the 320i SE saloon, you should aim to achieve a cost to change of roughly £12,850.