I agree with the other posters that 73k is far too ambitious on the dealer's part. I recently bought a '07 C2S, black/black, 12.6k miles, CPO to March 2013, that was listed a few months back for $71k, later reduced to $63k, and finally to 59.5 k - at which point I took the leap. I think your idea of making a firm offer around $64k is a good one. And if they allow you to walk away, I suggest giving them your contact details so if/when they change their mind after it hasn't sold for a month or so, they can get in touch with you, but make sure they know you will continue a broad search.

 

that looks like an amazing deal for you!

 

I think your last sentence nailed it - why don't you buy the car you really want instead of making a $60-$80k decision for a somewhat of a compromise?

There is nothing like a little drool of excitement everytime you see your car and start driving ...

 

The main decision appears to be your budget - you can stick with the original idea of low $50s which will give you a nice 2006S with lowish miles (or maybe even a Cab - nothing like driving along a winding mountain road with the top down) or if you are lucky a 2007 Base. I think you could stay below $55k all in (i.e. taxes, registration, little repairs (checkup, tires, Tuneup, change of all liquids etc).
If you want CPO or warranty left, you are probably closer to $60k - especially if you buy at a dealer.

If you are thinking about the 08 or a leftover 09, you are quickly in the high $70s or low 80s - just tax alone will be close to $7500.

Thus, the price range is a whooping $30k and I think you should determine your budget with your account manager (your wife???) and then go out and find the perfect car with the right options. Try a new thread as 'looking for' 2006S in Red/Blue/Whatever with Tan or red interior for less than $55k - you will have the entire board search for you ...

 

I agree 100% here. IMHO, never compromise on a car just because it's a great deal financially. I've made this mistake one too many times myself

For my DD I was deciding between a new '08 E90 M3 vs. an '09 C63 AMG. I wanted the C63 more, but at the time, BMWFS was offering insane money factors on M3 leases. I said, how can I turn down basically free money to drive the M3 -- it was hundreds of dollars a month less expensive. I rationalized that the money savings would make up for the difference in my interest between both cars.

Well...45 days later I dumped the M3, lost a hell of a lot of money, and got my C63.

If you must wait to get what you really want...then wait. Easier said than done. Good luck!