I need help analyzing the cost benefits of this, and I can't figure out the best way to do that.
Current Car:
2003 Subaru
122,000 miles
Manual Transmission
Blown head gasket ($1500-2000 to replace)
New Car Prospect:
2013 Honda Fit
25,000 miles
Automatic Transmission
$9,000
I live in a place with lots of snow, so AWD is helpful, but I am in a city, so it's not necessary. My current car is in great shape. Replacing the head gaskets should get me another 100k out of it. The Honda Fit also appears to be in great shape and is listed for KBB value. I will get it inspected by a mechanic first. There is also the added benefit of the Fit being an automatic. My wife does not drive a manual transmission, so this would allow our vehicles to be interchangeable.