The used car market is a fascinating world full of interesting stories and trends.
After we all suffered through the inflation of NEW cars during the pandemic, the used car market is booming. Whether you’re on a budget or just prefer the character of an older car, there are plenty of reasons to buy a used. But did you know that there are also a lot of interesting and little-known facts about used cars? Here are a few:
Here are a few facts you may not know:
The First Used Car Dealership
The very first used car dealership was founded in 1898 in London, England. The dealership, called “The Exchange and Mart”, offered classified ads that allowed people to buy and sell used cars for the first time. Before this, if you wanted to buy a used car, you had to either find one by word-of-mouth or go to a private sale. The Exchange and Mart made it much easier for people to find and buy used cars. . . this is like the precursor to AutoTrader.
The Perception of Used Cars
In the early 20th century, used cars were often referred to as “junk heaps” and were considered low-class transportation. This perception began to change with the rise of automobile racing, which helped popularize sports cars and high-performance automobiles. No longer hoopties and jalopies, people began to see that used cars could be just as stylish and exciting as new cars, and the stigma surrounding used cars began to fade.
The Most Popular Used Car Colors
The most popular used car colors are white, black, and silver. These neutral tones are versatile and tend to hold their resale value better than brighter colors, which can be more difficult to sell on the used market. If you’re thinking about buying a used car, it’s a good idea to choose a color that is in high demand. This will help you get a better price for your car when you decide to sell it in the future.
The Most Popular Used Car Brands
Toyota is the most popular used car brand in the United States, followed closely by Ford, Chevrolet, and Honda. These brands are known for their reliability and affordability, making them a popular choice for many used car buyers. If you’re looking for a used car that is likely to last, one of these brands is a good place to start.
The Average Age of a Used Car
You may be surprised to learn that the average used car on the road today is over twelve years old! This is due in part to more advanced technology and longer-lasting vehicles, which means that cars are lasting longer and being sold used more often.
With a little patience and a keen eye, you may just find the car of your dreams at a fraction of the cost of a new vehicle. Happy car hunting!