From the specs I just read "Large, wide, work surface (8" wide x 12-1/4" long) 4" larger then the average workspace" and looking at the picture; I would estimate the actual throat or harp space (the area to the right of the needle) between 8 & 9 inches. $500 is half the price of a new one.
Do you plan to use it on a quilting frame? It might be a little over-kill for that but I bought an Elna 7200 and used it for many years both on & off the frame until I got a bigger setup. I was very happy with my setup and would still be using it if I hadn't found a super deal on a larger system.