I'm thinking about buying a new car this summer. My current one had quite a bit in repairs last year, and at 19 years old I figure it's just going to get worse. At the same time, my gf is going to be selling hers. She takes very good care of it, and the temptation to get a 10 year old vehicle that I like and that is in excellent shape is very strong.
So I'm looking for opinions. Purely from a financial perspective, which vehicle do you think will cost less to operate over the next ten years? I'm going to pay her around $4000 for hers, so I'm looking for savings in that ballpark. I think it makes sense, but I'm not a car guy and I'm interested in people's opinions.
Basic info - I drive about 10,000 miles per year. I do not do any of my own mechanical work.
Current Car - 1996 VW Jetta GLS
215,000 miles
sedan, manual transmission, 4 cyl engine
currently gets 20-25 mpg
Replaced last year: entire exhaust system, alternator, starter, one wheel bearing, both front brushing arms, battery, new tires, engine mount, one power window
Currently not working: AC, cruise control, rear speakers, the other three power windows - also, ugly as sin
Possible New Car - 2005 Mazda 3
140,000 miles
hatchback, manual transmission, 4 cyl engine
currently gets 25-30 mpg? not sure
Replaced struts a couple of years ago, but no other major repairs recently. She keeps a log but I don't have the details in my head.
Everything currently works.