For many people, a car can be seen as a status symbol. Most of us have seen a profile of a celebrity lifestyle on television, often including extravagant automobiles with personal showrooms. We even see luxury vehicles on the streets of major cities, where driving (let alone parking) is often inconvenient. However, many of us view our cars for a more utilitarian purpose: a less expensive car can provide both the ease of use and enjoyment found in many of today’s luxury vehicles.
To save money on a quality car, buying used is one way to go. Many high-end vehicles can be purchased at significant savings when purchased used. In fact, the auto sales industry has popularized the phrase “used” to market higher quality used vehicles. Even people who have only bought new cars before are finding that a used vehicle offers similar quality at significant savings. It is well known that luxury car manufacturers like Lexus or Mercedes make vehicles that will easily last a decade and yet still be in top condition. Many of us also know family members who are in the habit of buying luxury cars off-lease or from one owner. Even Morgan Freeman’s character in the movie “Driving Miss Daisy” got in on this trend, buying Miss Daisy’s cars once they were out of new.
Some car manufacturers also specialize in high-quality, low-cost new cars. Hyundai, for example, facilitates reliability and affordability with vehicles often costing less than $12,000 with full warranty coverage. Also consider the Honda Civic, known for its durability and quality engineering from the Honda name, which can be had for around $15,000. Cars like these are among the least gas-guzzling on the roads today, and their longevity is legendary. This also gives you a higher resale value, should you decide to purchase a different vehicle later. Also, replacement parts are readily available (as are qualified mechanics) and are designed to work well even on low octane gasoline.
You can also consider buying a new luxury car that costs much less than similar vehicles. For example, the Audi fleet offers models that compete with Mercedes-Benz, Lexus and Jaguar, but at a significantly reduced price. Audi prides itself on unmatched engineering quality, while offering performance and style for less money than its competitors. Included in this fleet is the Audi TT; Although it’s not cheap, it’s a sports car that offers stylish looks and power to spare.
We shouldn’t forget those of us looking for a functional and affordable car, who don’t necessarily care about performance or looks. For these folks, the slightly older, dented, or paint faded car is the one for them. Many teenagers often have a car like this as the first car they own. Such a car gives freedom – the ability to be on the move. These cars can also teach the elements of basic mechanics to their owners, in case small problems arise. If this is your strategy, remember that an offer that sounds too good to be true can be a red flag: saving a few hundred dollars might not be worth it if your car suddenly won’t start when you have to go to work. .
