An AP reporter contacted me looking to interview someone who for someone who bought a 2004 or 2005 used Prius for over the sticker price of a new one. . If this is your situation, and you wouldn't mind talking with her, here is her contact info: Alicia Chang: achang @ ap .org or call her at 213-346-3114.
I saw ads in the paper for used Prii for the first time this week. A 2004 was going for $20,000 (20K miles). So that's under cost by 2-3K. The dealer also said he had stopped taking names for new ones, as the list had gotten out of control. Classics were selling from 17K to 19K.
The same day I picked up mine, a 2004 loaded model (white) was sold used with 22,000 miles on it. It sold for just a bit over $23k. I would have considered it except I don't like white, and I don't need DVD navigation. I'd rather have the new car in the color I like for the same price. I estimate that it was probably mid 25k when it was new. The reports of used Priuses selling for more then new doesn't come from around here, in the land of short waiting lists and little if any delay.
:| I am "one" who paid a bit above MSRP for a used Prius with ~4,500 miles on the odometer. The Prius was originally owned by a Toyota employee and had all required maintenance done including the 5,000 mile service and a couple of TSB's. It was literally "like new." The upsides: Immediate possession, new condition, maintenance done for a Toyota employee (you could bet it was done properly); The downside, 4,500 miles off the warranties. I actually paid $280.53 more than the original MSRP confirmed by the original window sticker. Our Prius is in excellent condition, now has ~10,000 miles on the odometer. No complaints.
