Is there something about 2013 models that makes them inherently more valuable?

[nbostaph]

I've started my car search this week for a Camaro, and have been surprised by the pricing. When I first looked about a year ago, 2013 SS2s were going for low $20s often with 20k - 30k miles. I also saw a couple ZL1s for around $32k.

This week when looking I'm seeing those same cars, now a year older and averaging 25k - 35k miles, for mid $20s, while ZL1s cannot be found for under $37k. This is a 20% increase in value in the past year.

So I thought I would expand my search to 2014s to see how much more they were and was surprised to see that I can get a 2014 SS2 with all the same options, and with less miles, for less than a 2013! My sample size is not statistically valid, but I'm also not just talking about 1 car; this is a trend across the 15 or so cars nationwide that meet my criteria for each year.

Is there something that I don't understand that explains the higher prices for 2013 models? Or is this just a quirk of supply and demand, or a result of my small sample size? In the case of the latter I'll give it a few weeks and just keep looking, but in the case of the former I think I may just need to suck it up and buy a 2014. :(

[Hixson]

Its either the region of the US youre living in, the dealers youre looking at, or incorrect all together. The 2013 is typically $2,000 less than a 2014 2SS and a 2013 ZL1 is typically 3-5K less expensive than a 2014. Go to KBB.com and look.

[nbostaph]

Originally Posted by Hixson

Its either the region of the US youre living in, the dealers youre looking at, or incorrect all together. The 2013 is typically $2,000 less than a 2014 2SS and a 2013 ZL1 is typically 3-5K less expensive than a 2014. Go to KBB.com and look.

I have a pretty specific set of criteria, so I've been looking nationwide. Then I have a spreadsheet tracking all those cars that meet my criteria, along with their mileage, pricing, and options. Once I account for those attributes I'm not seeing a difference in average price, and the 2014s are averaging less miles. Though like I said it may just be my incredibly small sample size.

[DvKillar]

folks here say 13 is sweet spot. last year for grill and tail lights, first year for myLink
maybe that is the difference? I dunno

[Reichler]

My opinion only:

The 2013's are the best year of the 5th gens as I hate the look of the 14-15 refresh, and the 13's gained mylink and the optional NPP exhaust.

[nbostaph]

I feel the same way about the styling, but a lot of people I talk to tell me I'm crazy so I assumed I was the odd one out. :P

I guess maybe I'm not so alone after all...

[nancygrl]

A lot of people don't like the '14 - '15 refresh. I'm searching for a 5th gen as well and I've notice the same thing with pricing for the '13's, they're a little higher than what they should be....imho

[Splat]

To the OP, I think your looking in all the wrong places, like Hixson pointed out, it all depends on whats available in your area.

I wouldn't believe the 13 should stand out as anything really special, other then the introduction of the 1LE, and even that is considered an SS..... but thats a diff story.

Only real changes were the Electric Power steering, touch screen radio/navigation, hill assist for manuals, and rear view mirror.

Other things were Recaro seats and NPP exhaust.... but these were add on's.

[yzinger]

I could live with the 14-15 1LE...otherwise I love the 10-13 styling.

[frankwjr]

My '10 is a blast and at almost 117k still get's over 20mpg hwy...are you looking for warranty? If not don't be afraid of a few miles...IMHO these cars are built like tanks, easy to work on and most parts are relatively inexpensive...LS3 over L99(I like to row the gears!) good luck!

[DrLove38]

It might be that you just can't beat the badazz look of a 13 SS/RS.

[mlee]

Originally Posted by Reichler

My opinion only:

The 2013's are the best year of the 5th gens as I hate the look of the 14-15 refresh, and the 13's gained mylink and the optional NPP exhaust.

2012 was the best with the old school radio and CD player.

Also 1st year of the ZL1 and less than 2000 produced.

[Hixson]

I think the best year of Camaro is the one you were able to buy at the best price presented to you lol. I love them all from 2010-2018, I just got the best deal on my 15 so obviously that's the best year XD

[Buckeye]

I believe the 2013 models were the first to offer HUD also.