[MOforthewin]

Originally Posted by silverct9a

My wife is a director for a large automotive group (so I have a good idea of how this works behind the scenes) and I implore you two to stop making sense...remember, this is a BAD move for Florida

I dont like large auto groups. I mean the multi state ones. Seems they always have sales catches and gimmicks compared to a more regional and local auto dealer for example.

Don't see a lot of locally owned mercedes, gm, ford, Toyota, bmw etc. Dealers anymore. The likes of auto nation are taking over now.

[MOforthewin]

Originally Posted by Corrie22

...and most Floridians don't work behind the counter at Burger King either

there's no such thing as "most" Floridians

If you're looking for a side job many more pay the same or better than fast food and better working conditions and don't require a degree.

[beach43ofus]

Originally Posted by MOforthewin

If you're looking for a side job many more pay the same or better than fast food and better working conditions and don't require a degree.

The average pay for a Mercedes Benz mechanic is $68,117...average. After 5 years, most are >$100k. After 10 years, Master Mechanics make $150k. No college degree required...they provide the training.

These Two dealers in Florida will employee 100+ mechanics combined since they are large volume.

[apple92680]

Trickle down economics never works. You're just going to get "trickled on".

[Arcenal813]

Originally Posted by Ghaati

I'll assume someone else's recent post will be eliminated from the discussion. But I'll express the same general sentiment.

Most Floridians can't afford to buy a Mercedes. Most Floridians aren't cut out for car sales jobs, and a series of Mercedes dealerships will only employ a tiny segment of the population that's looking for work.

So I'm not understanding why this is a win-win for Florida. It doesn't really help - anyone, other than the wealthy. And they don't need the help.

Most people I see driving Mercedes are those who supposedly “can’t afford” Mercedes. You know, those who have $800 car payments, drive a nice car, but live in a house with a bunch of roommates.

I’d say most Floridians, including those who technically “can’t afford” Mercedes, can, and do, in fact buy and drive Mercedes, as anyone with a pair of eyes can easily see driving around any of Florida’s cities. Scours a Publix parking lot, or any apartment complex, or any college campus, etc.

Bunch of CLA and C-Class Mercedes everywhere.

[MOforthewin]

Originally Posted by Arcenal813

Most people I see driving Mercedes are those who supposedly “can’t afford” Mercedes. You know, those who have $800 car payments, drive a nice car, but live in a house with a bunch of roommates.

I’d say most Floridians, including those who technically “can’t afford” Mercedes, can, and do, in fact buy and drive Mercedes, as anyone with a pair of eyes can easily see driving around any of Florida’s cities. Scours a Publix parking lot, or any apartment complex, or any college campus, etc.

Bunch of CLA and C-Class Mercedes everywhere.

Or they buy a used Mercedes or bmw with no warranty. There is a reason used european cars lose their value fast.

When the warranty expires look out!!! Porsche is another one I see that values drop

I'll stick with my camaro ss. Faster than 95 percent of the cars on the road 0 to 60 3.9 seconds, cheaper to repair. Than a bmw. My payment is 251 a month. I could easuly pay it off right now if i want.

[Ghaati]

Originally Posted by Arcenal813

Most people I see driving Mercedes are those who supposedly “can’t afford” Mercedes. You know, those who have $800 car payments, drive a nice car, but live in a house with a bunch of roommates.

I’d say most Floridians, including those who technically “can’t afford” Mercedes, can, and do, in fact buy and drive Mercedes, as anyone with a pair of eyes can easily see driving around any of Florida’s cities. Scours a Publix parking lot, or any apartment complex, or any college campus, etc.

Bunch of CLA and C-Class Mercedes everywhere.

No idea where you're talking about - maybe Miami?

But around here in the 70-square-mile vicinity of The Villages, the cars you see most of are Kias and Toyotas.

[MOforthewin]

Originally Posted by Ghaati

No idea where you're talking about - maybe Miami?

But around here in the 70-square-mile vicinity of The Villages, the cars you see most of are Kias and Toyotas.

Middle class retired folks, and I would think more from the upper south, and midwest versus orlando on south where I see a lot more from New England, Chicago.

The New England people seem to be the Keeping up with the Jones type. Like to have their luxury cars. Midwest more trucks, GM, etc.

[Arcenal813]

Originally Posted by Ghaati

No idea where you're talking about - maybe Miami?

But around here in the 70-square-mile vicinity of The Villages, the cars you see most of are Kias and Toyotas.

Orlando, Tampa, and Jacksonville.

I’m not surprised that people living in the Villages would be a bit wiser with their money.

[silverct9a]

Can’t say I blame you, but that’s certainly where the industry is heading through consolidation - small dealers simply can’t compete infrastructure and inventory wise. Funny you mention AutoNation as they’re based here in South Florida (Lauderdale) they’ve tried to poach my wife a few times.

Originally Posted by MOforthewin

I dont like large auto groups. I mean the multi state ones. Seems they always have sales catches and gimmicks compared to a more regional and local auto dealer for example.

Don't see a lot of locally owned mercedes, gm, ford, Toyota, bmw etc. Dealers anymore. The likes of auto nation are taking over now.