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which car to buy?

Discussion in 'Money Talk$' started by SolaSaint, May 18, 2012.

  1. SolaSaint

    SolaSaint Well-Known Member

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    With gas prices going through the roof, we are considering buying a car with better fuel economy. Our current car is old with lots of miles and only gets 25 MPG hwy. So it's time to trade.

    I'm looking at either a Honda Civic which is supposed to get 37 MPG. or a Ford Focus, I think it is supposed to get 33. What do you all suggest? I would consider a hybrid but they are cost prohibting IMO.
     
  2. mont974x4

    mont974x4 New Member

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    I get about 8 mpg in town. Not sure about hwy. But....its paid off.


    Most people would be happy to get over 20. Why risk more debt to save a few sheckles on fuel?
     
  3. SaggyWoman

    SaggyWoman Active Member

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    Personally, I advocate the Civic, due to how long the Hondas last. I have had some long lasting hondas in my life, plus they are good on mileage.
     
  4. annsni

    annsni Well-Known Member
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    I fully agree with you. We have two Hondas and have owned 3 others. They are fantastic!
     
  5. FriendofSpurgeon

    FriendofSpurgeon Well-Known Member
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    Assuming that you drive 10,000 miles a year and gas costing $3.50/gallon, you will save $455 per year -- assuming your MPG estimates are correct. Given that fact, not sure if it makes financial sense.

    However, if you are going to buy a new car, assuming prices are the same, I agree that the Civic is probably a superior buy. You may also want to look at others in the same category --- Toyota Corolla and the VW Jetta come to mind.
     
  6. SaggyWoman

    SaggyWoman Active Member

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    Price wise, there is no comparison to the cost. Civic overwhelms a Ford.

    But I would still buy due to longevity.

    Wouldn't mind a corolla either.
     
  7. Salty

    Salty 20,000 Posts Club
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    I would suggest a Ford - but I am a bit prejudiced as I sell Fords.

    As far as a hybrid - I've been told the 2012 Escapes hybrids aren't that great, However the 2012 Fusions are good. But it depends on your driving habits. The hybrid currently only works at speeds 40 and under. The 2013's will up that speed a bit. Yes, the hybrid is more expensive but it could be cost effective based on your driving. If all you do is Interstate - no need for it. If you are a driving instructor - it would be a great vehicle.

    SS- in your OP, you don't state any details other than MPG desire. It is hard to determine the best vehicle for you without additional information. I would recommend you stop at a dealership and get some info. Yes, some will induce you to buy immediately, but play offense. Just tell them you are in the planning stage and if they push too much, just tell them too much pushing will push them off your potently dealerships. Get as much info as possible.
    And ask some pastors for men they may know who are committed Christians and car salesman.

    I have had some customers who told me they are Christians - and not all of them have bought form me.

    If you have any specific questions - just email me.

    Salty
    Sold my lucky car today - My 13th sale of my career!
     
  8. SolaSaint

    SolaSaint Well-Known Member

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    Thanks everyone, I too am partial to Honda's since I was a previous Accord owner. My wife doesn't like the looks of the civic and I admit it is kinda plain looking. I'm for the MPG and a low sticker price.
     
  9. annsni

    annsni Well-Known Member
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    My daughter has a 2008 and that thing is fun to drive!
     
  10. Salty

    Salty 20,000 Posts Club
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    Remember, you get what you pay for!

    Be sure to check warranties, ect
     
  11. SaggyWoman

    SaggyWoman Active Member

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    I drive an accord now, and it is okay, I guess as an older person, but those Civics scoot now.
     
  12. InTheLight

    InTheLight Well-Known Member
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    Ford is making really great cars nowadays. They didn't take bailout money. Buy American.

    Every Honda I've ever been in has had lots of tire and road noise. I don't think I could stand it after a couple of days.

    Car and Driver likes the Focus. Faster, better interior, more room, and only 1 mpg less.

    http://www.caranddriver.com/comparisons/2012-ford-focus-se-vs-2012-honda-civic-ex-comparison-test

    If you drive 12,000 miles a year the difference between 32 mpg and 33 mpg is 12 gallons of gas or less than $50 a year. I'd gladly pay less than a $1 a week to drive a car with a bit more zip and more room.

    You've got to go and test drive them both. Be sure to tell each dealer you're looking at their competitor. It's a good way to walk out of the dealership--"I'm not making a decision on the Focus today, I'm heading over to the Honda dealership to look at the Civic." This way you can avoid an emotional decision. Always walk away the first time (sorry Salty!)
     
    #12 InTheLight, May 20, 2012
    Last edited by a moderator: May 20, 2012
  13. Salty

    Salty 20,000 Posts Club
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    and don't forget Leasing as an option. There are many advantages. I will agree there might be some disadvantages, but take a good look at it.

    This is if you drive less than 20,000 miles a year - and based on the programs of the dealer.
     
  14. InTheLight

    InTheLight Well-Known Member
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    I agree. I was all set to buy my wife a three year old Toyota Sienna SE minivan but opted for leasing a brand new Chrysler Town & Country Touring. Yes, I won't own the vehicle after 36 months are up, but the net monthly cost was ridiculously cheaper than the Toyota, even if I was planning on owning the Sienna for six years and the lease-end buyout on the Chrysler is attractive.
     
  15. annsni

    annsni Well-Known Member
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    That's what we did with my last Dodge Grand Caravan. We leased then purchased - and saved ourselves a few thousand dollars because of the lease loyalty bonus of $6,000 that year!
     
  16. FriendofSpurgeon

    FriendofSpurgeon Well-Known Member
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    Many Fords are made in Mexico. Many Hondas are made in the USA. Which one is the more American?
     
  17. Salty

    Salty 20,000 Posts Club
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    Good question - where do the profits ultimately end up?
     
  18. InTheLight

    InTheLight Well-Known Member
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    BTW, how are the brakes holding up on it?
     
  19. InTheLight

    InTheLight Well-Known Member
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    Yep, follow the money.
     
  20. FriendofSpurgeon

    FriendofSpurgeon Well-Known Member
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    That's one way to look at it.

    The other way is to see who is employed.
     
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