Or, how can I have a decent car for the rest of my life without wasting a ton of money.
Right now, I drive an average of 25,000 mile a year. Over the next 40 years, I could very well drive a million miles. When I look at the money lost over the next 40 years, and compare it to how much money I make, I could very easliy lose several years of my life working to pay for automobiles. When I think about it, I would rather have the years instead of the shiny car.
Depreciation should be factored in, of course, but I don’t expect inflation to be adjusted for. Maintenence costs, tires, gas, etc are all important factors.
As a WAG I’d say research motorcycles / cheap economy cars. You’re probly looking for an asian company due to low maintenance and reliability. I’d suggest checking out used honda motorcycles / cheap cars with high MPG
Ok, addition to my OP. How much would it cost?
Also, is it best to buy new and run it till it’s dead, or buy used every couple of years?
Can’t drive a motorcycle in California. Self preservation instinct too strong.
Well I can tell you that if you’re looking only at economy then you probably don’t want a motorcycle. They cost more in maintence then a car does. I’ve driven my car 100k, as of last night, and been through three sets of tires. So I’ve spent ~$600 for the two sets I’ve had to buy. My motorcycle I’m on my 5th set at 65k so I’ve spent ~$800 for tires on that.
I would say that the best way would be to get a cheap new(er) car with one of those 100k warrenties on it. I couldn’t tell you how much it would cost but I plan on driving my car until it just costs too much to repair as it is to buy a new one.
It’s hard to say how much it would cost. There are many factors that come into play. Especially the Engine and Trans. The engine could last anywhere between 100,000mi and 500,000mi with just regular maintenance. Engine bearing technology has come a long way since the 70’s, a time when 80k on an engine was “on it’s way out.” Rebuilds for motors and installation will definately be more if not done yourself, so figure a few grand for a motor rebuild and install. Tranny’s usually last about 80,000mi to 150,000mi if you’re lucky and are usually cheaper than engines. In the long run, if you’re dedicated, it would be A LOT cheaper than buying vehicles over the years.
So, would rebuilding every 250k be cheaper than buying vehicles every 100k? If you wanted to avoid the rebuilding process, at what mileage wouldyou buy the car, and when would you sell it?
How about leasing? If you’re not rough on cars it might be a good deal to lease under one of those policies where every “x” number of years you turn in the car you’ve been driving and they issue you a newer one and you just keep going.
Yes, I would say it’s cheaper, if what you’re comparing it to is a new car, by a landslide. You could by a used car too at every 100k interval, but that’s taking a chance though.