I un-FIREd myself recently

[HappyWlife]

I have been a long time lurker of this forum, enjoy reading all of the tips and tricks.  Thanks to this blog and site, I was able to achieve FI a couple of years ago, however, I kept on working since I enjoyed the work, so I didn't do the RE part of FIRE.

I recently however spent a boat-load of money (literally) on a couple of brand new cars.  I have never bought brand new cars for the nearly 30 years I have been driving, always buying used vehicles, so it was completely out of character for me to buy 2 brand new cars.

One thing I always like to do is travel the country, drive where I please and when I please.  I looked into hybrids and found one that I really liked, the Hyundai Ioniq.  It was only $24k and came with all of the gadgets and gizmos, like adaptive radar control, lane keep assist, blind spot warning, and the kicker that did it for me was lifetime warranty on the hybrid lithium battery.  I had never bought a new car before, so I splurged and bought the Ioniq for cash for $24k ($2k under invoice!).  The car is great and I love driving it, and getting 50+ miles to the gallon.

I thought I was all set, then I was invited to an special Honda VIP event.  There I got to test drive the new Acura super car, the Acura NSX.  I was amazed at this supercar, and loved its hybrid technology.  I got the names of some Acura dealers and started chatting with them.  Come to find out, Honda was giving a $30k factory incentive on the cars because they weren't selling as well as anticipated, plus the dealer was willing to give $10k+ in discounts as well to get rid of the one they had in the lot.

So after some hand wringing, I decided to buy a new $180k Acura NSX at $40k off MSRP.  Who can say they can buy a supercar for $40k off the lot?   It was the deal of a lifetime.  I decided to splurge and double treat myself.

So in the short span of a few months, I had spent close to $200k on 2 brand new cars, both hybrids, at the opposites of the spectrum.  I know this is completely anti-mustachian but I don't care.  I am still in good financial shape after buying these cars, and I'll enjoy them for many years to come.

I was a hoarder of my money until recently, when a close family member died suddenly.  It made me realize what am I saving so much money for?  I want to enjoy the money when I'm young and can still travel and do things I like.  I'm not going to wait until I'm 65 or older to enjoy nice things. 

So there you have it... I dropped nearly $200k on a couple of brand new hybrids...and love it.  Very shocking coming from someone like me (one of the most mustachian people out there until now...hehe).

For some reason, when I think of this site, I always think of this awesome song:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oNk6-0rDdto   

I'm kicking my heels and mentally dancing to this song right now!!  :)

[undercover]

Mid-life crisis or something? $200k and still no Model S? Hybrids are mediocre gas/electric cars. I'd rather have an amazing electric car.

[HappyWlife]

Thats great!

Enjoy your purchases.

One thing to be on the watch for is the increasing speed on the hedonic treadmill.  Sometimes the more you acquire, the more you want because the thrill of the last purchase has worn off.

Thank you!! Yes I plan to carefully guard my spending.  I won't be buying any more cars for at least 10 years or more.

[HappyWlife]

Mid-life crisis or something? $200k and still no Model S? Hybrids are mediocre gas/electric cars. I'd rather have an amazing electric car.

Could be a mid-life crisis?  I was hit hard when the close family member died suddenly.  Life suddenly seemed shorter than the promise of being forever when I was younger.  But I don't care, I saved at least $40k on my car purchases, so it's financially as best as I could do with the purchases.

I also love electric cars... I test drove the Bolt, and looked into the Tesla for at least a year.  The problem for me is the range.  I drive into some remote places, far away.  I like to go to Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, drive up and down the Pacific Coast Highway, go to Canada, Alaska, etc.  There is no way an electric car can serve my purpose at all.  A Tesla takes effort to drive between two states, never mind across the country, even with the super charger network that's fantastic.

I just like hopping in my car and choosing a route / place to go, unhindered by recharging stations.  Maybe in 10 years it might be practical for me to buy a fully electric car, but not right now.

[EmFrugal]

I think this makes sense as long as you don't catch the consumerism bug/life-style creep. If it's just a rare purchase on something you really value and will use until the end of its life AND you have a healthy amount saved, OK. But instead of thinking of hoarding your money in the future, why not align yourself with a charity that you really believe in and give anything that feels like too much away there? You may have already done this.

I like to think that when my DH and I have more than "enough" of a stache, we will use it in splurges that we value like upgrading our home finishings (things like new hardwoods, remodeling here and there, etc) but also give the rest to charities we believe in. I am on a mission to really remove myself from consumerism in general, but I also think it has its place at times.

Enjoy your splurges!

[TheAnonOne]

So you went back to work for these? Given the "UN-FIRED" title of the thread. How long will you go back to work to make another $200,000? Even MAKING $200,000 a year, it would probably take 1.5 to 2 years to pay it back. (Which might not be a bad thing, depending on the job/your lifestyle)

We own a C7 that we got new back before we really got serious about FIRE, we kept it and I don't really regret it, but it did probably set us back a good 6 to 8 months.

[Livingthedream55]

Wouldn't have been my choice, but hey.

If you wanted a car you never had to repair you could have rented a car every time you wanted to travel and used Uber locally.  You'd be hard pressed to spend more than $5,000 or $6,000 annually that way.

[Retire-Canada]

Money is a tool. As long as your financial plans are still strong and the purchases align well with your personal beliefs/values I don't see a problem.

Once I hit my 4%WR FIRE $$ Target if I were to see my portfolio grow by several hundred thousand more I'd be tempted to buy a travel van. I've always wanted one of those, but FIRE is way more important to me so I am not buying a van until my retirement is locked down.

[plantingourpennies]

Ha!

You may not know this, but the Acura NSX is the official car for Early Retirees.

I bought a 1992 about a year ago, Carl from the 1500s got his shortly after. Pete (MMM) has talked about wanting one.

At some point you're not really a Early Retiree-you're just a rich guy who works now and then.

What's your favorite part of the NSX? I love the way the new ones look...

[bluebelle]

I've been accused of being to literal, but 2 things
1) did you go back to work as your title suggests
2) $24K + $140K isn't 200K

as retire-canada said - money is a tool, in and of itself it has no value or purpose.  If there is enough cushion in your cash flow, happy travels.

[ol1970]

I think its great to see other car people on here, congrats on the new ride(S)!  I couldn't be happier with my ridiculous automobile purchase a couple years ago 911 Turbo S...bought it a year old from a dude who had to sell it because he got in trouble money wise.  I was able to write a check on the spot and 5 years later its worth about $10k less than what I paid...not many new cars you could put 3-5k miles a year on and see that little of depreciation.   Best part is it will still beat a brand new $150K Tesla P90D in ludicrous mode in the 1/4 mile (yes I've raced a few times...very sad/surprised look on the Tesla owners face lol) and I can drive it cross country without mapping out where I have to stop.  My friends dad has the new NSX and it is a sweet car, you can't take it with you but you can make some great memories!

I'm a huge fan of Tesla's btw, I love the impact they have had on the industry and gotten non-car people excited about cars and getting the traditional manufacturers to step up their game and technology, but not sure why people get fired up when you choose something besides a Tesla...all of these cars are ridiculous unnecessary luxury purchases and you certainly cannot make a business case based on gasoline savings you'll achieve purchasing a $150k car when you can buy a gasoline powered car for $20k that gets 45 mpg...any Tesla will depreciate by more in a year than you'll spend on gas in 10 years in economical 4 cylinder.    I'm holding out on my next daily driver until I can get a level 5 autonomous all electric vehicle with a 600 mile range regardless of who manufactures it, I think Tesla has been key in causing this technology to advance so rapidly.  My guess is the 2023 model year...

[acroy]

LOL, long live targeted outrageous consumerism!
I am more interested that you are FI but not RE. why? I am getting close to there myself and mapping the RE part has been difficult.

[SC93]

We had a Tesla for awhile. To be honest, the thing I liked best was when I pulled in front of the garage the garage door automatically opened. lmao It will take your stomach if you punch the peddle.......

Now I have a question, we had a charger put in our garage.... does everyone do that or does your kind recharge itself? I'm not too 'hip' on electric cars, just the Tesla for a short time.

[Dragonswan]

So question (sorry for the slight thread hijack): If you have to work until a specific age to get a pension and you plan to, is it bad to spend the excess money on a sweet new ride?  I ask because I'm planing to work until 2025 to get my pension and health benefits for life.  With pension and SS I'll cover all bare necessities plus a modest car payment.  My savings are for non mustachian extras and one off expenses like house repairs. So can I please buy a new high end electric vehicle with my discretionary income? Can I please, huh,huh, please can I? I promise I'll still max my work retirement account.

[soccerluvof4]

You said you were still financially fine so why are you going back to work? I could care less about buying the cars if thats what you wanted to do . I guess I am curious as to the whole process of it all. You did say it was because why not spend anything and enjoy life before 65 so I think you missed part of the MMM philosophy there. So could you share your long term plan or short term? or is it just telling us about the cars

[neil]

You're FI, you're working, it's fine.  Sure, why not.  Depending on what FI+working means for you, maybe your savings rate is still positive and anything above zero is even more gravy.

I would worry about a car feature addiction though.  The next ten years are going to see significant upgrades in both autonomous features and engine upgrades.  Even GM claims to target 100% fleet upgrade to electric.

I hate driving.  Wake me up when I can command the vehicle to go where I want, and I will probably buy a new car also (not the supercar, though...)

[soccerluvof4]

So question (sorry for the slight thread hijack): If you have to work until a specific age to get a pension and you plan to, is it bad to spend the excess money on a sweet new ride?  I ask because I'm planing to work until 2025 to get my pension and health benefits for life.  With pension and SS I'll cover all bare necessities plus a modest car payment.  My savings are for non mustachian extras and one off expenses like house repairs. So can I please buy a new high end electric vehicle with my discretionary income? Can I please, huh,huh, please can I? I promise I'll still max my work retirement account.

You can do whatever you want. You gave us no numbers other than said your getting a pension and covered for life for Health Care. So I can only assume that covers all your means. Your FU money is yours for whatever... If the numbers work and you can sleep at night thats what matters. Besides by 2025 maybe you plans will change.

[Bracken_Joy]

I do worry this is part of your grief process, and you're likely to regret the large purchases later.

Just be sure to do enough introspection, and ideally talk to a professional, to make sure that you're not hiding your emotions in consumerism. It happens to a lot of us.

Sorry to hear about your loss.

[Bateaux]

I'd have to have a huge stash to justify buying cars for that much money.  Like 5 million plus stash.

[May2030]

Ha!

You may not know this, but the Acura NSX is the official car for Early Retirees.

I bought a 1992 about a year ago, Carl from the 1500s got his shortly after. Pete (MMM) has talked about wanting one.

At some point you're not really a Early Retiree-you're just a rich guy who works now and then.

What's your favorite part of the NSX? I love the way the new ones look...

Without turning this into a car forum the video of Ayrton Senna driving the original NSX around Suzuka is amazing. Gets out and has not even broken a sweat.

Don’t forget to always give a nod to to your late relative every time you drive your car. I bought a fast car on credit (face punch) for similar reasons which was great but even pre-MMM parting with the petrol money felt like a expense too far. In hindsight depreciation was £1000 a month so the petrol was a drop in the ocean. Enjoy it.

I wonder how many other super car owners there are hiding on the forum? Hope you also have a bike.

[HappyWlife]

I think this makes sense as long as you don't catch the consumerism bug/life-style creep. If it's just a rare purchase on something you really value and will use until the end of its life AND you have a healthy amount saved, OK. But instead of thinking of hoarding your money in the future, why not align yourself with a charity that you really believe in and give anything that feels like too much away there? You may have already done this.

I like to think that when my DH and I have more than "enough" of a stache, we will use it in splurges that we value like upgrading our home finishings (things like new hardwoods, remodeling here and there, etc) but also give the rest to charities we believe in. I am on a mission to really remove myself from consumerism in general, but I also think it has its place at times.

Enjoy your splurges!

Thank you! I do plan to leave a healthy estate for various charities at the end of life.  I have more money than I plan to spend at this point.

[HappyWlife]

So you went back to work for these? Given the "UN-FIRED" title of the thread. How long will you go back to work to make another $200,000? Even MAKING $200,000 a year, it would probably take 1.5 to 2 years to pay it back. (Which might not be a bad thing, depending on the job/your lifestyle)

We own a C7 that we got new back before we really got serious about FIRE, we kept it and I don't really regret it, but it did probably set us back a good 6 to 8 months.

I was retired for a brief period of time, was miserable, and decided to go back to work, before I bought these cars.   I was like this guy - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sQNtu4kpd64   He sold his company to IBM for millions, and was depressed and miserable for 3 months.  He talks about lack of meaning work at 3:44 into the video.   My work is meaningful to me so I do enjoy it quite a bit. 

[HappyWlife]

Wouldn't have been my choice, but hey.

If you wanted a car you never had to repair you could have rented a car every time you wanted to travel and used Uber locally.  You'd be hard pressed to spend more than $5,000 or $6,000 annually that way.

Yea, I've been a top tier renter of most car agencies throughout my life.  I have so many free rentals on my account I don't know I'll use it all.  Renting a car is very different from owning the cars you really desire.

At the end of day, life is more than just about money.  If you had 1 year to live, would you hoard money or would you spend it on experiences?   Now if you had enough money for 30+ years, would you continue hoarding money or would you go and do fun stuff?

[HappyWlife]

Ha!

You may not know this, but the Acura NSX is the official car for Early Retirees.

I bought a 1992 about a year ago, Carl from the 1500s got his shortly after. Pete (MMM) has talked about wanting one.

At some point you're not really a Early Retiree-you're just a rich guy who works now and then.

What's your favorite part of the NSX? I love the way the new ones look...

That's pretty cool.  My favorite part of the NSX is the driving experience.  I have never experienced a car like this before.  The instant torque to the twin turbos means the car has instant power from the start to the finish.  It's truly amazing.   

Plus, it's a Honda, won't have exotic car prices for maintenance and upkeep. :)

[HappyWlife]

I've been accused of being to literal, but 2 things
1) did you go back to work as your title suggests
2) $24K + $140K isn't 200K

as retire-canada said - money is a tool, in and of itself it has no value or purpose.  If there is enough cushion in your cash flow, happy travels.

1) I did go back to work, but before I bought the cars.  2) with tax (which is a huge hit), title, and registration, it's closer to $200k.

[HappyWlife]

I think its great to see other car people on here, congrats on the new ride(S)!  I couldn't be happier with my ridiculous automobile purchase a couple years ago 911 Turbo S...bought it a year old from a dude who had to sell it because he got in trouble money wise.  I was able to write a check on the spot and 5 years later its worth about $10k less than what I paid...not many new cars you could put 3-5k miles a year on and see that little of depreciation.   Best part is it will still beat a brand new $150K Tesla P90D in ludicrous mode in the 1/4 mile (yes I've raced a few times...very sad/surprised look on the Tesla owners face lol) and I can drive it cross country without mapping out where I have to stop.  My friends dad has the new NSX and it is a sweet car, you can't take it with you but you can make some great memories!

I'm a huge fan of Tesla's btw, I love the impact they have had on the industry and gotten non-car people excited about cars and getting the traditional manufacturers to step up their game and technology, but not sure why people get fired up when you choose something besides a Tesla...all of these cars are ridiculous unnecessary luxury purchases and you certainly cannot make a business case based on gasoline savings you'll achieve purchasing a $150k car when you can buy a gasoline powered car for $20k that gets 45 mpg...any Tesla will depreciate by more in a year than you'll spend on gas in 10 years in economical 4 cylinder.    I'm holding out on my next daily driver until I can get a level 5 autonomous all electric vehicle with a 600 mile range regardless of who manufactures it, I think Tesla has been key in causing this technology to advance so rapidly.  My guess is the 2023 model year...

Thanks!  The 911 is a beast.  Hah great minds think alike with regards to these "ridiculous cars"! :)

[HappyWlife]

LOL, long live targeted outrageous consumerism!
I am more interested that you are FI but not RE. why? I am getting close to there myself and mapping the RE part has been difficult.

Hah, I totally understand.  This video explains the hard part of regarding RE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sQNtu4kpd64  start at 3:30 into the video. 

I have meaningful work and enjoy it, so it's part of who I am.  I would have gone back to work even if I didn't need to. Hope you have meaningful work or find it!  MMM does "work" but it's meaningful work to him, and it pays him well too!

[Dragonswan]

So question (sorry for the slight thread hijack): If you have to work until a specific age to get a pension and you plan to, is it bad to spend the excess money on a sweet new ride?  I ask because I'm planing to work until 2025 to get my pension and health benefits for life.  With pension and SS I'll cover all bare necessities plus a modest car payment.  My savings are for non mustachian extras and one off expenses like house repairs. So can I please buy a new high end electric vehicle with my discretionary income? Can I please, huh,huh, please can I? I promise I'll still max my work retirement account.

You can do whatever you want. You gave us no numbers other than said your getting a pension and covered for life for Health Care. So I can only assume that covers all your means. Your FU money is yours for whatever... If the numbers work and you can sleep at night thats what matters. Besides by 2025 maybe you plans will change.

I think the numbers work.  I'll have a pension of about 39K at 60 and SS at about 28K at 62.  I'm making over 100K now.  Even supporting Uncle Sam and Aunt Virginia's spending habit, and maxing the retirement account,  I still have a good bit left over.  So am I still good to go?

[HappyWlife]

So question (sorry for the slight thread hijack): If you have to work until a specific age to get a pension and you plan to, is it bad to spend the excess money on a sweet new ride?  I ask because I'm planing to work until 2025 to get my pension and health benefits for life.  With pension and SS I'll cover all bare necessities plus a modest car payment.  My savings are for non mustachian extras and one off expenses like house repairs. So can I please buy a new high end electric vehicle with my discretionary income? Can I please, huh,huh, please can I? I promise I'll still max my work retirement account.

If you can afford to do it, and the ride will bring that much pleasure to you, yes, go ahead.  :)

[HappyWlife]

Without turning this into a car forum the video of Ayrton Senna driving the original NSX around Suzuka is amazing. Gets out and has not even broken a sweat.

Don’t forget to always give a nod to to your late relative every time you drive your car. I bought a fast car on credit (face punch) for similar reasons which was great but even pre-MMM parting with the petrol money felt like a expense too far. In hindsight depreciation was £1000 a month so the petrol was a drop in the ocean. Enjoy it.

I wonder how many other super car owners there are hiding on the forum? Hope you also have a bike.

Thank you, I definitely give a nod to my relative every time!  He was a huge car guy also and I'm sure he is smiling down.

[Dragonswan]

Oh yeah, OP - Congrats on the cars and enjoy driving them.  Since you like working, driving them to work should give you double joy. :)

[HappyWlife]

I think the numbers work.  I'll have a pension of about 39K at 60 and SS at about 28K at 62.  I'm making over 100K now.  Even supporting Uncle Sam and Aunt Virginia's spending habit, and maxing the retirement account,  I still have a good bit left over.  So am I still good to go?

What car(s) are you lusting after?  If you can get a steal like I did, I think it would be a fun choice.

[HappyWlife]

I do worry this is part of your grief process, and you're likely to regret the large purchases later.

Just be sure to do enough introspection, and ideally talk to a professional, to make sure that you're not hiding your emotions in consumerism. It happens to a lot of us.

Sorry to hear about your loss.

Thank you.  It has helped to cope with the loss but the wheels were in motion before the relative passed on.  He was very sick though at the time and it made me think about what's important in life.  I consulted a professional, talked to my accountant, and after going back and forth internally I did it.  I don't regret it at all now a little bit of time has passed by. I have a huge smile every day and every time I drive the cars. :)

[Cycling Stache]

This is a weird thread for the MMM forum.

On the one hand, the instinct is to be supportive of the original poster because this is generally that type of forum.

But really, I can't see how buying $200k worth of cars to get yourself to national parks is something to celebrate.

As to the general principle of having enough money and doing what you want with it, I am a fan.  But if someone posts that they have tons of money and decided to buy a really loud truck to scare the shit out of cyclists as they drive by, I don't think we'd endorse it on the principle that it's your FU money and do whatever you want.

Not sure where that leaves us.  Enjoy the parks?

Not meant to be a critical post btw.  Just seems to capture the idea that our initial reaction is to view the world from the perspective of the original poster, even where the post isn't really consistent with how most people may view the situation. 

I do think your idea that you magically saved $40k is misguided.  The dealer didn't let the car go for any price he wasn't willing to sell at.  But $40k's probably not going to matter to you regardless, so it doesn't matter that much.

[HappyWlife]

I'd have to have a huge stash to justify buying cars for that much money.  Like 5 million plus stash.

How much do you have now?  Trust me, you don't need that much, unless you have huge expenses and expensive taste in things.

[HappyWlife]

This is a weird thread for the MMM forum.

On the one hand, the instinct is to be supportive of the original poster because this is generally that type of forum.

But really, I can't see how buying $200k worth of cars to get yourself to national parks is something to celebrate.

As to the general principle of having enough money and doing what you want with it, I am a fan.  But if someone posts that they have tons of money and decided to buy a really loud truck to scare the shit out of cyclists as they drive by, I don't think we'd endorse it on the principle that it's your FU money and do whatever you want.

Not sure where that leaves us.  Enjoy the parks?

Not meant to be a critical post btw.  Just seems to capture the idea that our initial reaction is to view the world from the perspective of the original poster, even where the post isn't really consistent with how most people may view the situation. 

I do think your idea that you magically saved $40k is misguided.  The dealer didn't let the car go for any price he wasn't willing to sell at.  But $40k's probably not going to matter to you regardless, so it doesn't matter that much.

You are free to react however you want.  We all make our own choices.  I make well over $100k per year, have a very simple inexpensive lifestyle, and made a choice to spend some of my stash on "outrageous" cars which were at a huge discount.

Would I recommend you do the same?  Hell no... but if it makes you happy, why not?  Life is not about money... you need money to live, but you need more than money to be happy and a meaningful life.  I'm at the point where I have other priorities than just accumulating money, including doing meaningful work (that pays very well), and spending some of it on things the average person could never buy. 

I'm aware it's not the most optimal financial decision, but it works for me.  I could have plowed the money back in the market and have it grow a lot more...but at this point I have enough stash that even more growth in my stash won't affect my life.  So why not?

Most people couldn't, and shouldn't do what I did.  But like Dave Ramsey says - I lived like no one else before, so I can live like no one else now.  I lived very frugally, followed books like "The Wealthy Barber", "your money or your life", and followed sites like "the simple dollar", this site, and more.  I never spent on stuff that I didn't care for, like big screen TVs, or going to see movies, or expensive vacations.  I just bought a nice simple home with a nice garage, and kept accumulating.

Other people who save to this point, and spend it traveling on worldwide vacations, scuba diving, buying real estate, what have you, choose to do what they wish.  I choose to take a different path, because I know my values and priorities.  It's definitely off the beaten path for MMM, and not your average stasher'.  :)

[HappyWlife]

You're FI, you're working, it's fine.  Sure, why not.  Depending on what FI+working means for you, maybe your savings rate is still positive and anything above zero is even more gravy.

I would worry about a car feature addiction though.  The next ten years are going to see significant upgrades in both autonomous features and engine upgrades.  Even GM claims to target 100% fleet upgrade to electric.

I hate driving.  Wake me up when I can command the vehicle to go where I want, and I will probably buy a new car also (not the supercar, though...)

I hear you about the car feature addiction.  I want a fully self-driving car in the future, since I drive long distances to remote places. A self-driving car will allow me to relax and nap on long drives.

I'm not too worried about spending too much on cars though. Prior to now, I have only owned 4 vehicles, each one purchased gently used, and I drove the wheels off of them.  I don't plan to become a car collector all of sudden.  The Ioniq will be driving to the ground.  The NSX will be driven in nice weather and to nice places.  :)

[Dragonswan]

I think the numbers work.  I'll have a pension of about 39K at 60 and SS at about 28K at 62.  I'm making over 100K now.  Even supporting Uncle Sam and Aunt Virginia's spending habit, and maxing the retirement account,  I still have a good bit left over.  So am I still good to go?

What car(s) are you lusting after?  If you can get a steal like I did, I think it would be a fun choice.

Well, I was lusting after the Tesla Model S and was going to get the Tesla 3 to scratch the itch, but I want my car mid 2018 and as I have already been waiting two years and now they say it will be 12-18 months more, nope.  So then I looked on the Jaguar website (I have a 2008 S-type now) and lo and behold they will be delivering the all electric I pace in the USA starting, wait for it, mid 2018!!!! And I want one! 

[HappyWlife]

What car(s) are you lusting after?  If you can get a steal like I did, I think it would be a fun choice.

Well, I was lusting after the Tesla Model S and was going to get the Tesla 3 to scratch the itch, but I want my car mid 2018 and as I have already been waiting two years and now they say it will be 12-18 months more, nope.  So then I looked on the Jaguar website (I have a 2008 S-type now) and lo and behold they will be delivering the all electric I pace in the USA starting, wait for it, mid 2018!!!! And I want one!

Yea that seems like a great car!!  Make sure you wait until it's available and the reviews are favorable.  Being a first electric for Jaguar there might be bugs.  The Porsche Mission-E seems very interesting, but it will be over $100k when it launches, I hear.

[Dragonswan]

See that's the thing.  I'm only a little rich.  I can't afford a 100K car (not and still max the retirement accounts), but 50-55K I could do, which is where the I pace is expected to clock in.  It is maddening that there aren't more details or firm pricing yet. I plan to have a chat with the dealer in a month or two.

[HappyWlife]

See that's the thing.  I'm only a little rich.  I can't afford a 100K car (not and still max the retirement accounts), but 50-55K I could do, which is where the I pace is expected to clock in.  It is maddening that there aren't more details or firm pricing yet. I plan to have a chat with the dealer in a month or two.

I know, the anticipation is the killer.  Be patient...patience is your best friend.  I was super excited about the NSX when it first came out.  Dealers were charging $40k - $50k "market adjustments" to the NSXs so you could be the first in line to buy one.

I yawned, decided I would never own one.  Then when the tables turned the other way, and they were giving me money to buy one, I said "sure, why not".  :)

The iPace should be very cool.  If you do get one, I want to hear all about it!

[ol1970]

Oh yeah, OP - Congrats on the cars and enjoy driving them.  Since you like working, driving them to work should give you double joy. :)

For the record some FIRE people who drive silly cars because don't need to go back to work in order to enjoy them.  I've never had a car payment in my life...ever, retired at 43 & travel with world with a burn rate under 1.5% and drive a paid for 911 parked in my paid for garage, as a summer car...all because I believe in delayed gratification. Some people on here are quick to call what others spend their money on a waste, but we all have a common theme of spending on things we individually value and I think that why we should respect one another especially on an internet forum.  I guarantee you that I've been sitting at a light next to a MMM dude in a $8k used Civic who laughs at me and thinks "Ha! that guy is selling his freedom just so he can drive a nice car...what a fool"  Meanwhile reality is I can afford my ride more than he can afford his...the point in FI is to do what you want, not piss in other peoples cheerios!

[2Birds1Stone]

As a car guy, I can't fathom spending $160k on an Acura.....but to each his (or her) own.

The NSX is certainly not a "drivers" car, but congrats and enjoy!

[soccerluvof4]

This is a weird thread for the MMM forum.

On the one hand, the instinct is to be supportive of the original poster because this is generally that type of forum.

But really, I can't see how buying $200k worth of cars to get yourself to national parks is something to celebrate.

As to the general principle of having enough money and doing what you want with it, I am a fan.  But if someone posts that they have tons of money and decided to buy a really loud truck to scare the shit out of cyclists as they drive by, I don't think we'd endorse it on the principle that it's your FU money and do whatever you want.

Not sure where that leaves us.  Enjoy the parks?

Not meant to be a critical post btw.  Just seems to capture the idea that our initial reaction is to view the world from the perspective of the original poster, even where the post isn't really consistent with how most people may view the situation. 

I do think your idea that you magically saved $40k is misguided.  The dealer didn't let the car go for any price he wasn't willing to sell at.  But $40k's probably not going to matter to you regardless, so it doesn't matter that much.

I see where your coming from and you make a very good point.  If something is 100$ and is 50% off but you don't need it then you spent 50$ you didn't save 50$.  I agree its an odd subject but never-the-less she followed up with her reasoning and though it would not be anywhere my choice and I don't advocate it the thread is meant for discussion and its in line.

[HappyWlife]

As a car guy, I can't fathom spending $160k on an Acura.....but to each his (or her) own.

The NSX is certainly not a "drivers" car, but congrats and enjoy!

Hah, now you're rabble rousing!!  :)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zwkUHSt35vE  Matt Farah who has driven all types of exotic sports cars, LOOOOVVEEES the NSX and would LOOOOVVVEEE to own one (see the video).  He and Chris Harris (Top Gear) both are huge fans of the car (see video).   

I'll take their words over yours, that the NSX is a real "driver's car".  Clearly you've never had the chance to sit in a NSX or drive one.  Maybe some day you will get a chance to do so and appreciate what you have been missing.  :)

And I never judge cars by their badges.  That's one way to go broke super fast.  I could have bought a Lambo / Ferrari or some other exotic... but some of those cars are garbage.  Most are not worth the money (to me). They are only for people who want flash without the real substance, and artificial scarcity from those manufacturers to keep the prices inflated.  That's not my game.  I buy what I buy because the car has to be worth it.

[Cycling Stache]

the point in FI is to do what you want, not piss in other peoples cheerios!

This wasn't addressed to me, but since my post could have been construed as critical, it's worth addressing. 

I don't have any problem with people buying cars, or even nice cars.  Indeed, I used to have one.  It was a blast to take to the track.  I also don't generally have an issue with the idea that people buy the things that make them happy.

But if I post that I'm rich and I decided to buy $100k worth of chocolate pudding because I can, what should the reaction of the MMM community be?  Okay?  No response?  That was the part that I found odd, given that our general instinct is to attempt to be supportive of an original poster, even when the post isn't really consistent with the general principles of the forum. 

Indeed, if this had been posted in the Antimustachian wall of shame forum (OP went back to work to pay for $200k in cars so OP could drive to national parks economically), I bet the reactions would be overwhelmingly critical of OP.  It thus shows the impact of who makes the original post and our attempt to identify with them.

I was going to add why post it at all, but then I thought maybe it was helpful information for people to consider who might FIRE on a lesser budget and then decide that they want to buy more things?  Or that FIRE didn't actually bring happiness to OP?  Again, I found it a little tough to know how to process this post, and found that difficulty worth exploring.

[HappyWlife]

I see where your coming from and you make a very good point.  If something is 100$ and is 50% off but you don't need it then you spent 50$ you didn't save 50$.  I agree its an odd subject but never-the-less she followed up with her reasoning and though it would not be anywhere my choice and I don't advocate it the thread is meant for discussion and its in line.

But if you have the money and wanted it, and could afford it, and it brings you joy, is it still a bad thing? :)

[2Birds1Stone]

As a car guy, I can't fathom spending $160k on an Acura.....but to each his (or her) own.

The NSX is certainly not a "drivers" car, but congrats and enjoy!

Hah, now you're rabble rousing!!  :)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zwkUHSt35vE  Matt Farah who has driven all types of exotic sports cars, LOOOOVVEEES the NSX and would LOOOOVVVEEE to own one (see the video).  He and Chris Harris (Top Gear) both are huge fans of the car (see video).   

I'll take their words over yours, that the NSX is a real "driver's car".  Clearly you've never had the chance to sit in a NSX or drive one.  Maybe some day you will get a chance to do so and appreciate what you have been missing.  :)

And I never judge cars by their badges.  That's one way to go broke super fast.  I could have bought a Lambo / Ferrari or some other exotic... but some of those cars are garbage.  Most are not worth the money (to me). They are only for people who want flash without the real substance, and artificial scarcity from those manufacturers to keep the prices inflated.  That's not my game.  I buy what I buy because the car has to be worth it.

I actually did get to sit in one at the NY Auto show in 2016.

Love Matt's One Take videos....

For me, and probably most real car enthusiasts it's missing a few things, namely a clutch pedal, and RWD. It's also 4000+ lbs with fluids and driver.

[HappyWlife]

the point in FI is to do what you want, not piss in other peoples cheerios!

This wasn't addressed to me, but since my post could have been construed as critical, it's worth addressing. 

I don't have any problem with people buying cars, or even nice cars.  Indeed, I used to have one.  It was a blast to take to the track.  I also don't generally have an issue with the idea that people buy the things that make them happy.

But if I post that I'm rich and I decided to buy $100k worth of chocolate pudding because I can, what should the reaction of the MMM community be?  Okay?  No response?  That was the part that I found odd, given that our general instinct is to attempt to be supportive of an original poster, even when the post isn't really consistent with the general principles of the forum. 

Indeed, if this had been posted in the Antimustachian wall of shame forum (OP went back to work to pay for $200k in cars so OP could drive to national parks economically), I bet the reactions would be overwhelmingly critical of OP.  It thus shows the impact of who makes the original post and our attempt to identify with them.

I was going to add why post it at all, but then I thought maybe it was helpful information for people to consider who might FIRE on a lesser budget and then decide that they want to buy more things?  Or that FIRE didn't actually bring happiness to OP?  Again, I found it a little tough to know how to process this post, and found that difficulty worth exploring.

I didn't see your post as "pissing in my cheerios".  I also don't need other people's validation of my actions to make me feel good or bad. :)

I thought it would be an interesting dialogue on this site, given the theme of the site. 

These cars make me happy not because I own them, but they make me happy because of the possibilities they open up.  The Ioniq allows me to travel around the nation with very little gas expenditure.  It saves me money in the long run, and gives me freedom to go anywhere.

The NSX allows me to experience a "roller-coaster" on wheels as I wish, plus I love seeing the reactions of other people when they see my car.  So far I have received such crazy reactions from most people who have seen my car...it's insane.  Most people can't not make a comment about my car or ask questions about it when they see it.  It's priceless.

When I took my NSX to the tire shop, the entire tire shop emptied... all of the employees and customers came out to the parking lot to look at the car, take pictures, ask questions, and congratulate me about the car.  What other thing could elicit such a fun reaction?

I'm not a materialistic person, I'm happy from the possibilities of what the cars bring me, including sharing the joy with other people.  I think most people don't understand the distinction. :)

[HappyWlife]

I actually did get to sit in one at the NY Auto show in 2016.

Love Matt's One Take videos....

For me, and probably most real car enthusiasts it's missing a few things, namely a clutch pedal, and RWD. It's also 4000+ lbs with fluids and driver.

Most cars unfortunately are losing the clutch pedal.  My 2002 Honda Civic is a manual, with about 200k miles on it.  Love that thing! 

I wish it had a pedal, but the driving experience is trans-formative and life changing.  It is truly amazing how you can connect with the car despite the technology... enjoy Matt's video, he also has one on the track with the NSX. :)

PS - Matt says driving the NSX is a life changing experience, and everyone he took for on a drive were speechless, and shocked at the car, asking "how did this car do that?" [see video at 14:55]   I agree with him.  The main reason I bought this car is because it is a life changing experience.