Barrie Travis at CAP Red Book s convinced of the
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virtues of Scanias: -They hold very strong residuals. Typically there's a £1.000 positive price differential between an R-Series and the equivalent Mercedes Actros or Volvo FH more at auction."
They have a reputation for reliability" says Travis who, like CM. talks to a lot of drivers with no recorded problems or recalls and good driveability. They hold their own in the second-hand market, especially with a high roof or higher-spec interior... expect £22,000 for a decent threeyear-old example."
Engine power is apparently considered 'adequate' by buyers. but in the short term beware automated gearboxes. The excellent Volvo I-Shift currently causes a three-grand drop in second-hand price over a manual and Barry expects the same to apply to Opticruise as it appears in the auction rooms. "Operators are scared of the repair bills, but this will change," he says confidently.
Overall the Scania R124 420 is viewed by OAP's expert as a good used buy for much the same reasons its first owner made the purchase. And as Barry says: "The driver is now an important cog -employers have to acquiesce to their wishes."