"They are much sought after, so the residuals are very
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good." Tony Stephenson
Tony Stephenson is sales manager for Oaf franchise Lex of Wrexham.
"We don't keep a large stock of used trucks," he says. "We prefer to find the right vehicle to match up with what the customer asks for.
"Early XFs are starting to hit the market," he adds. "They are much sought after, so the residuals are very good. Oaf was keen to protect the residual value of the XF, and offered only new trucks with a high specification. As standard they include items such as tinted glass and air conditioning.
"An engine brake is fated on most, and the Super Space Cab brings extra stowage space and half-leather trim," says Stephenson. "It is 320mm taller than the basic Space Cab, and the living space makes them popular with owner-drivers and international hauliers, while their high profile make them popular with any progressive fleet."
Stephenson reckons that the 430hp model is more common second-hand, but feels that with 44 tonnes available from the start of next year the 480 will become more in demand in both new and used markets. He chooses the 4x2 for international work; it has a 1,200-litre factory-fitted fuel tank option. The 6x2 is not necessary abroad, where the weight limit is still 40 tonnes.
"As I said, prices are holding up well," he remarks. "A 4x2 1998 R-rag Space cab unit will fetch £35,000, and you can add an an other £3,00044,000 for the Super Space Cab. You can expect to pay about £39,000 for the 6x2 fitted with the basic Space Cab. Extras to look for include the Oaf engine brake—and air management kits are a must, as is air suspension. Large tanks make international work more profitable.
"The Oaf XF is the UK's premium truck," he concludes.