Title: Buying a Corvette Without the Added Dealer Markup (ADM): A Game-Changer
For car enthusiasts, purchasing a Corvette is often a dream come true. Known for its iconic design, powerful performance, and undeniable appeal, the Corvette represents a unique blend of American muscle and luxury. But when it comes to purchasing a Corvette, many buyers are faced with one frustrating hurdle: the Added Dealer Markup (ADM). However, a growing number of dealerships, such as MacMulkin Chevrolet in New Hampshire, are bucking the trend and offering Corvettes without this extra charge, providing a refreshing option for buyers looking for a straightforward car-buying experience. This is where I purchased my 2025 Z06 HTC LTZ with the Performance Package.
In this blog, we’ll dive into what an ADM is, why some dealerships charge it, and how you can purchase a Corvette without it—highlighting the advantages of going through dealerships like MacMulkin that choose to forgo this additional cost.
What is an Added Dealer Markup (ADM)?
Before we explore the benefits of buying a Corvette without an ADM, let’s first define what ADM is. Simply put, an Added Dealer Markup is an additional fee that some dealerships add to the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of a vehicle. The purpose of the ADM is to capitalize on high demand, particularly for popular or limited-edition vehicles like the Corvette.
The reasoning behind the ADM is fairly straightforward: when a new model or a highly sought-after car is in short supply, dealerships may raise the price above the MSRP to make a profit. This is particularly common in the case of vehicles like the Corvette, which often sees significant demand due to its performance capabilities and status as an American sports car icon.
However, not all dealerships follow this pricing model, and some have chosen to remain transparent and fair with their pricing.
The Problem with ADM
For many buyers, the added markup can be a frustrating and unexpected cost. While the Corvette is a luxury car with a high base price, the ADM can make the total cost even higher. Depending on the dealership and the model of the Corvette, the ADM can range from a few thousand dollars to over $10,000. For a car that already has a premium price tag, this added cost can feel like a rip-off, especially when it is not disclosed upfront.
Not only does ADM inflate the purchase price, but it also creates an unfair experience for buyers. It’s especially frustrating when you’ve researched the MSRP and budgeted accordingly, only to find out that the dealership expects you to pay hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than the car is worth based on its list price.
For many Corvette enthusiasts, this can leave a bitter taste in their mouth, especially when the desire to own a Corvette is often coupled with the goal of enjoying the car’s performance and legacy without the added stress of overpaying.
Why Do Some Dealerships Charge ADM?
Dealerships that charge ADM typically do so as a way to maximize their profit margins. The logic is simple: If there’s high demand for a car and limited availability, dealerships believe they can get away with charging more. This practice is particularly common with high-performance cars like the Corvette, which often sell out quickly when a new model is released.
It’s also worth noting that the practice of charging ADM is not illegal or unethical, although it can be seen as a controversial business tactic. Some dealerships justify the practice by claiming that the additional markup helps cover the cost of maintaining a high-end inventory or that the demand for the vehicle justifies the price increase. However, to buyers, it can feel like a bait-and-switch tactic—especially when they feel they should be paying closer to the MSRP.
The Benefits of Purchasing a Corvette Without ADM
Here are a few of the key benefits of purchasing a Corvette from a dealership that doesn’t charge ADM:
1. Fair Pricing
The most obvious benefit is the price. When you purchase a Corvette without an ADM, you’re paying the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) without any added inflation. This helps you stick to your budget and avoid any surprises when it comes time to finalize the sale. If you’re purchasing a high-performance car like a Corvette, it’s nice to know that the price you see is the price you’ll pay.
2. Transparent Buying Experience
When dealerships are upfront about pricing, it creates a more positive buying experience for the customer. By eliminating the ADM, these dealerships set the stage for an easier, more straightforward purchase. Buyers know exactly what they are paying for, and there’s no room for hidden fees or surprise markups.
3. Avoiding Unnecessary Costs
Many dealerships that charge ADM do so on the basis of demand and rarity. However, just because a car is in high demand doesn’t mean it should come with an inflated price. By purchasing a Corvette from a dealership that doesn’t add these costs, you’re avoiding the unnecessary markup and ensuring you’re getting a fair deal.
4. Building Trust and Loyalty
Dealerships that opt not to charge ADM build long-term customer loyalty. Buyers know that they can trust the dealership to offer fair pricing, and they’re more likely to return for future purchases or services. This trust is invaluable in an industry where many buyers feel taken advantage of due to deceptive pricing practices.
5. Encouraging More Buyers
A dealership that doesn’t charge ADM can make purchasing a Corvette more accessible to a broader range of buyers. The elimination of added markups means that more people can afford to get behind the wheel of a Corvette without the burden of excessive costs. This can make a big difference in helping buyers achieve their dream car without financial strain.
Conclusion
Purchasing a Corvette without the added dealer markup is a rare but increasingly valuable option for buyers. By choosing a dealership like MacMulkin Chevrolet in New Hampshire, Corvette enthusiasts can experience the thrill of owning an iconic sports car without paying inflated prices. Fair pricing, transparency, and a customer-first mentality make buying a Corvette from a dealership that doesn’t charge ADM a truly rewarding experience.
If you’re in the market for a Corvette, don’t let the prospect of ADM hold you back. Choose a dealership that values your business and offers a straightforward path to ownership—after all, a dream car should come with a dream deal.