Originally Posted by
Efrem
In some ways I wish I shared your attitude of not caring about the other guy as long as I get mine, things might be simpler if I could say "screw you" that easily, but I think my life would be poorer in many other ways if I did. Perhaps when you get past your early 30s you'll gain a bit more understanding of the others we share this planet with, some of whom don't have whatever advantages you do, and mellow out a bit. There are more important things in this life than forcing someone to give you nine airline miles for a Chinese take-out lunch, when the 30 to 50¢ he pays Visa for the privilege is more than his margin on your meal.
The last time I checked, our economy was capitalist rather than socialist. A "businessman" who is struggling is probably in the wrong business.
OK, back to topic...
It sounds like those who are purchasing cars with a lot of haggle room need to weigh the benefits of the CC points vs. the car's extra options or bottom-line price. If, however, you are buying a car that rarely dips below MSRP (e.g., a MINI or a Lotus), or a special-order car, then the dealer is basically forced to decide between a sale or no sale. I think they will always take a sale.
I have a suggestion: Since AMEX is known for charging higher merchant fees, why not come armed with an AMEX and a MC/Visa? Offer to charge on the AMEX first, and if the dealer is really staunch about not accepting it, then pull out the Visa and offer to "save" him a few bucks on merchant fees. If he still holds out, walk away or report him for a violation of merchant agreement.