lamboblogging

I've driven "practical" (Prius, Accord, etc.) cars since I got my drivers license since I was 15 and I'm well into my late 20s now. I did not grow up in car culture and nobody I know are car enthusiasts. I have alot of questions regarding "luxury" or "super" car ownership that I'm too afraid to ask at a dealership since I'll probably come off as way too rookie. Hopefully some of you guys can enlighten me about what it actually takes to buy, maintain, and actually enjoy an AMG. I've been eyeing the AMG GT or AMG GT C series since 2016 and I'm determined to get one within the next few years.

1. I know prior to 2021 AMG GT prices were notorious for losing up to 30k in value within a year. I just did a few quick estimates using the MB pre-owned catalog, and it looks like some 2019 - 2020 GT and GT C models have increased in value. I assume this is due to the chip shortage, backlog of orders, and the rumors/news that MB will eventually end production for the V8 engine. This type of pricing will probably last well into late 2022, if not 2023. But do you think the used AMG will actually not "return to normal" and the new normal will be just slight depreciation for 2022 and onwards for AMG models?
2. How important is a garage? I have what used to be a detached single car garage, and 2 car garage part of the main property. But the previous owner converted the detached into an ADU that generates rental income, and attached 2 car garage is now a laundry room, bathroom, office. I live in coastal SoCal. Is it unwise to leave it parked on my drive way with a car cover? I can build a covered driveway. Something like (this). I have plenty of security cameras and live on a pretty medium traffic street. Also, I will definitely be getting the protective clear coat and maybe even wrap it since I like the exterior color change from time to time.
3. I've never financed a car. I used to always pay in cash. Financing seems like the best option since have great credit. Is there a "sweet spot" or general range for % down payment? I was aiming for 40k to 50k down payment on a sale price of 130k - 140k car while trying to keep my monthly below 2k. I don't pay for gas (work benefits) and expect average $750 per month in maintenance, insurance, and car detailing. Is this "normal" and do car loans even do 90k loans? I know it depends on income, and my approx. income is near 600k a year (before taxes), yet Chase only preapproved me for a 30k car loan based on that estimated income.
4. How and where the fuck do you actually learn to drive these things? I will probably use mine as an almost daily driver. I'll take my Prius to work but after work activities will be with the AMG. I never learned technical stuff about driving, such as gear changing, paddle shifting, revving, drifting, racing, etc. Is it a given that AMG owners practice this somewhere if they're interested? Not that I want to pretend I'm in a Fast and Furious movie, but if I paid for an AMG GT C... I might as well learn how to handle an AMG GT C without running it into a ditch like a scrub.
5. Last question and just pure speculation. If the 2022 model is truly the last year for the GT and GT C to have the V8 engine... isn't it a given that these will actually appreciate in value to all the petrol heads out there?
   

Any other info, tips, or just comments are appreciated. Also, maybe some questions and answers in regards to AMGs can eventually be added to a FAQ section in this subreddit.

Submitted December 01, 2021 at 03:11AM by peacenskeet https://ift.tt/3E9SLNL