To answer this question, we will identify American luxury cars that have experienced significant depreciation, making them affordable options in the used car market. Depreciation is a common phenomenon for luxury vehicles due to their high initial price and the rapid decline in value over time. By analyzing available data on depreciation rates, resale values, and used car prices, we can pinpoint specific models that offer great value for buyers seeking luxury at a lower cost.

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Step 1: Understanding Depreciation in Luxury Cars

Luxury cars tend to depreciate faster than mainstream vehicles because:

1. They often come with high initial price tags.
2. The demand for new features and technology makes older models less desirable.
3. Maintenance costs for luxury cars can be higher, which may deter some buyers from purchasing them used.

American luxury brands like Cadillac, Lincoln, and Tesla are known for producing premium vehicles that depreciate significantly after a few years. This creates opportunities for budget-conscious buyers to purchase these vehicles at a fraction of their original price.

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Step 2: Criteria for Selection

To identify the top 10 American luxury cars that are now affordable bargains:

1. The vehicle must be manufactured by an American brand (e.g., Cadillac, Lincoln, Tesla).
2. It should have experienced substantial depreciation (50% or more) within five years.
3. The current used market price should make it accessible compared to its original MSRP.
4. The vehicle should still offer desirable features such as comfort, performance, and technology.

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Step 3: Researching Specific Models

Based on available data from sources like Kelley Blue Book, iSeeCars.com, and other automotive resources, here are the top 10 American luxury cars that meet the criteria:

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1. Cadillac CT6

• Original MSRP: $55,000+
• Current Used Price Range: $25,000 – $35,000
  The Cadillac CT6 is a full-size luxury sedan offering advanced technology like Super Cruise (semi-autonomous driving) and a spacious interior. Despite its premium features, it has depreciated significantly due to competition from German rivals like BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

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2. Lincoln Continental

• Original MSRP: $46,000+
• Current Used Price Range: $20,000 – $30,000
  The Lincoln Continental combines classic American luxury with modern amenities such as massaging seats and adaptive suspension. Its steep depreciation makes it an attractive option in the used market.

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3. Tesla Model S (Early Models)

• Original MSRP: $70,000+
• Current Used Price Range: $30,000 – $45,000
  Early versions of the Tesla Model S have become more affordable as newer electric vehicles enter the market. Despite its age, it still offers impressive performance and range compared to many modern EVs.

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4. Cadillac Escalade (Older Generations)

• Original MSRP: $75,000+
• Current Used Price Range: $25,000 – $40,000
  The Cadillac Escalade is a symbol of American luxury SUVs but suffers from high depreciation due to its large size and fuel consumption. Older models remain highly capable with luxurious interiors.

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5. Lincoln Navigator (Older Generations)

• Original MSRP: $80,000+
• Current Used Price Range: $30,000 – $45,000
  Similar to the Escalade in size and prestige but slightly more understated in design. Older Navigators offer excellent towing capacity and upscale interiors at a fraction of their original cost.

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6. Chrysler 300C

• Original MSRP: $40,000+
• Current Used Price Range: $15,000 – $25,000
  The Chrysler 300C blends bold styling with V8 power under the hood in its higher trims. Its depreciation makes it an affordable entry point into full-size American sedans with premium features.

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7. Buick LaCrosse

• Original MSRP: $35,000+
• Current Used Price Range: $15,000 – $20,000
  The Buick LaCrosse offers quiet refinement and smooth handling but struggles against competitors like Lexus or Acura in terms of brand perception—leading to significant depreciation over time.

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8. Cadillac ATS

• Original MSRP: $35,000+
• Current Used Price Range: $15,000 – $25,000
  A compact sports sedan designed to compete with BMW’s 3 Series but fell short in sales numbers despite strong performance credentials—resulting in steep depreciation.

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9. Lincoln MKZ

• Original MSRP: $36,000+
• Current Used Price Range: $15,000 – $25,000
  The Lincoln MKZ is a midsize sedan offering hybrid options alongside traditional gas engines while featuring luxurious interiors at much lower prices today due to rapid value loss.

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10. Chevrolet Corvette C7 (Base Models)

• Original MSRP: ~$60K – Current Market Prices