The Inevitability of Depreciation
Depreciation has always been a part of the world of automotive enthusiasts, as inherent as tire wear or the first scratch on a new hood. Regardless of how advanced or desirable a model may be, time and mileage remain undefeated. Only a small number of particularly sought-after cars can retain their value longer, but they are exceptions that only prove the rule.
One market segment illustrates this better than others: supercars. With the exception of special limited-run models, especially those equipped with manual transmissions, these cars can depreciate faster than they accelerate from 0 to 60 mph.
Price Drop in Practice
A vivid example is this 2023 Maserati MC20 Cielo, an impressive convertible with just 255 miles on the odometer, which was recently sold for nearly $100,000 less than its original price. It is this figure that makes one think.
The seller purchased the car earlier this year, paying a total of $308,695, which included nearly $42,000 for additional options and $3,695 for delivery. The exterior is finished in matte white with black accents; this option alone added $14,000 to the total.
The interior is trimmed in red and black Alcantara along with a carbon fiber package from Maserati, and 20-inch forged Corsa Design wheels, scissor doors, LED lighting, a dual exhaust system, and a retractable hardtop complement the overall experience.
Technical Features
However, what the MC20 hides under its rear hood makes it particularly interesting. There lies a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine that produces 621 horsepower and 538 lb-ft of torque, sent to the rear wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Drivers get a launch control system, a double-wishbone suspension, active dampers, and a front axle lift system. In other words, it’s hard to understand why this car lost approximately a third of its value so quickly, being sold for only $212,000.
Does the Brand Define Everything?
Perhaps the reason is the absence of a V12 or even a V8 engine. Perhaps it’s because it’s a Maserati, not a Ferrari or Lamborghini. Whatever the reason, it’s clear that the value of these cars is falling. Based on data from Bring A Trailer auctions, the average price for an MC20 has been steadily declining since 2022.
For buyers looking for a supercar that combines daily practicality with thrilling performance, the MC20 Cielo remains an attractive option. However, for sellers, timing and market conditions are crucial; sometimes just a few hundred miles can cost nearly six figures.
This case clearly demonstrates how quickly market benchmarks can change even for premium cars. While the MC20 offers impressive technical specifications and exclusive equipment, its value depends largely on brand perception and overall demand trends. For future owners, this level of depreciation can be an opportunity to acquire an almost new supercar at a significantly lower price, but for the first buyers, it can mean significant financial losses in a very short period.