Author Topic: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?  (Read 7856 times)

Villanelle

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 6651
If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« on: December 26, 2020, 10:13:07 AM »
We are moving to a location that will no longer allow us to be a 1 car family.  (DH will have to drive to work and its the 'burbs so everything will be a drive for me, too.)  I have always liked small cars.  I think a Honda Civic is the largest car I've ever had. 

I may or may not get a traditional job.  If I do, it would only be if I can find something 15 miles or less from home. (CRAZY traffic any further out that would easily be an hour+ commute.)  If not, this would be for errands, and DH might use it on the days a couple times a month he goes to another site about 30-40 miles away. 

I'm sort of overwhelmed with choices.  I like to buy a few years old, low mileage. 

If you were in my shoes, what would you buy (make, model, and maybe year range of a few years)?

ETA more info.  We live in the DC metro area where there is occasional snow or ice, but not intense winters.  And while I haven't ruled an en electric car, because we move often and may end up in places where plugging in is difficult or impossible, I'm hesitant, especially about a car that *only* plugs in. 
« Last Edit: December 26, 2020, 02:50:23 PM by Villanelle »

soccerluvof4

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 7161
  • Location: Artic Midwest
  • Retired at 50
    • My Journal
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #1 on: December 26, 2020, 10:39:03 AM »
2016 Toyota Corolla or 2016 Nissan Sentra to save a few bucks.

If your taller 2015 or 16 Kia Soul. My Son is 6'9 and fits comfortably in it and also nice to have the back area for hauling.

Steeze

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1205
  • Age: 36
  • Location: NYC Area of Earth
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #2 on: December 26, 2020, 11:07:13 AM »
I picked up a red 2013 Prius with 45k miles on it for $10,000 in May this year. No regrets, I would buy it again. Felt a bit lame at first, but I love the Prius now.

Had some scuffs on the rear fender from parking troubles, but had a clean car fax and a complete service record, 1 owner. Dealership cleaned it up and gave it a touch up before we picked it up (not a great paint job, but passable from 10’ away). With taxes, fees, registration, etc. it was $12,000 out the door.

Other cars I was considering: Honda Fit, Toyota Camry Hybrid, to a lesser extent: Toyota Corolla, Mini Cooper S.

What I wanted but didn’t buy: Toyota 86 (BRZ)

Considerations: gas consumption, maintenance costs, maximum mileage, known maintenance issues / flaws, total expected 10 yr cost of ownership, resale value, ease of parallel parking.

FINate

  • Magnum Stache
  • ******
  • Posts: 3114
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #3 on: December 26, 2020, 11:17:25 AM »
Unless I misunderstand something, it sounds like your husband already has a car that works for his commute that can also be used for going to the further away sites. So all you need is a vehicle for getting around town, at most about 30 miles per day though typically just a few miles per day. In this situation I would totally go for a used Nissan Leaf which you should be able to find for under $10k. The Leaf's are known for battery degradation so that's something to watch out for. But anything over 50 miles of real world range (maybe 75 for some extra buffer) is more than sufficient for your needs. And there's no need for a special charger in your case, a standard 3-prong 120v connection is enough to cover your typical usage.

 
« Last Edit: December 26, 2020, 11:21:00 AM by FINate »

John Galt incarnate!

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 2038
  • Location: On Cloud Nine
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #4 on: December 26, 2020, 11:51:46 AM »
We are moving to a location that will no longer allow us to be a 1 car family.  (DH will have to drive to work and its the 'burbs so everything will be a drive for me, too.)  I have always liked small cars.  I think a Honda Civic is the largest car I've ever had. 

I may or may not get a traditional job.  If I do, it would only be if I can find something 15 miles or less from home. (CRAZY traffic any further out that would easily be an hour+ commute.)  If not, this would be for errands, and DH might use it on the days a couple times a month he goes to another site about 30-40 miles away. 

I'm sort of overwhelmed with choices.  I like to buy a few years old, low mileage. 

If you were in my shoes, what would you buy (make, model, and maybe year range of a few years)?

IDK enough of specific models  to be of any help but my choice of brand would probably be Honda or Toyota and I'd take a look at Subaru.

 I'd buy a small SUV  or small  car no bigger than a Corolla or Accord.

EDIT: I'd also look at Kia. I gather that they have excellent warranties.
« Last Edit: December 26, 2020, 11:56:10 AM by John Galt incarnate! »

Cranky

  • Magnum Stache
  • ******
  • Posts: 3842
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #5 on: December 26, 2020, 12:02:02 PM »
We have a Subaru Impreza which is their “small car”. It’s been very reliable.

Dr. Pepper

  • Stubble
  • **
  • Posts: 139
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #6 on: December 26, 2020, 12:03:53 PM »
Take a look at the Chevy Volt, I have owned one for 2 yrs now and have been very happy. It can run off electric or gas, it goes maybe 50 miles on a charge, my work is about 5 miles away so I almost never use gas unless I'm taking a long trip. End up using maybe 8 gallons a month or so. But it is nice to have the option to run it off gas when you need to. It only needs an oil change about once a year, uses regen braking so the brakes last a long time. Very low maintenance overall.

John Galt incarnate!

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 2038
  • Location: On Cloud Nine
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #7 on: December 26, 2020, 12:24:29 PM »
We have a Subaru Impreza which is their “small car”. It’s been very reliable.

Subarus are VERY popular up here in the mountains.



!!!!!
HAPPY NEW YEAR !!!!!
« Last Edit: December 26, 2020, 12:48:18 PM by John Galt incarnate! »

RedmondStash

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1114
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #8 on: December 26, 2020, 01:13:47 PM »
Unless I misunderstand something, it sounds like your husband already has a car that works for his commute that can also be used for going to the further away sites. So all you need is a vehicle for getting around town, at most about 30 miles per day though typically just a few miles per day. In this situation I would totally go for a used Nissan Leaf which you should be able to find for under $10k. The Leaf's are known for battery degradation so that's something to watch out for. But anything over 50 miles of real world range (maybe 75 for some extra buffer) is more than sufficient for your needs. And there's no need for a special charger in your case, a standard 3-prong 120v connection is enough to cover your typical usage.

So I basically did this 2.5 years ago. I got a 2013 Nissan Leaf, built right before they upgraded the battery, so it's losing range kinda fast.

A couple of caveats: Common wisdom among EV owners seems to be that for battery longevity, it's best to stay out of the top 20% and bottom 20% of the battery. That means if your car's total range is 100 miles, you're trying to stay within the middle 60 miles. That's quite a difference. My car currently has probably a 55-mile total range, but I won't drive it more than maybe 30 miles between charges, which makes it very limited. And it uses battery much faster on freeways than in slower city traffic. It's fine for local errands, but that's about it.

Also, the battery degrades over time, so the range is slowly but constantly decreasing. My car had probably a 70-mile total range when I first bought it, so it's lost maybe 10-15 miles in total range in 2.5 years. (It's hard to be precise because I don't fully charge or drain the battery often, and the gauges are guesstimates.)

I'd recommend getting a car with at least a 100-mile total range, which means only a newer used Nissan Leaf, not an older one, or possibly a different used EV. That way, even for local errands, you've got some room for the battery to lose capacity over a few years. Range anxiety is a real thing.

To be fair, it's a good car, and I love not going to gas stations. It's more than adequate for 90% of my driving needs. My next car will probably be a long-range EV.

As with all things, YMMV. (See what I did there?)

FINate

  • Magnum Stache
  • ******
  • Posts: 3114
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #9 on: December 26, 2020, 01:15:29 PM »
Unless I misunderstand something, it sounds like your husband already has a car that works for his commute that can also be used for going to the further away sites. So all you need is a vehicle for getting around town, at most about 30 miles per day though typically just a few miles per day. In this situation I would totally go for a used Nissan Leaf which you should be able to find for under $10k. The Leaf's are known for battery degradation so that's something to watch out for. But anything over 50 miles of real world range (maybe 75 for some extra buffer) is more than sufficient for your needs. And there's no need for a special charger in your case, a standard 3-prong 120v connection is enough to cover your typical usage.

So I basically did this 2.5 years ago. I got a 2013 Nissan Leaf, built right before they upgraded the battery, so it's losing range kinda fast.

A couple of caveats: Common wisdom among EV owners seems to be that for battery longevity, it's best to stay out of the top 20% and bottom 20% of the battery. That means if your car's total range is 100 miles, you're trying to stay within the middle 60 miles. That's quite a difference. My car currently has probably a 55-mile total range, but I won't drive it more than maybe 30 miles between charges, which makes it very limited. And it uses battery much faster on freeways than in slower city traffic. It's fine for local errands, but that's about it.

Also, the battery degrades over time, so the range is slowly but constantly decreasing. My car had probably a 70-mile total range when I first bought it, so it's lost maybe 10-15 miles in total range in 2.5 years. (It's hard to be precise because I don't fully charge or drain the battery often, and the gauges are guesstimates.)

I'd recommend getting a car with at least a 100-mile total range, which means only a newer used Nissan Leaf, not an older one, or possibly a different used EV. That way, even for local errands, you've got some room for the battery to lose capacity over a few years. Range anxiety is a real thing.

To be fair, it's a good car, and I love not going to gas stations. It's more than adequate for 90% of my driving needs. My next car will probably be a long-range EV.

As with all things, YMMV. (See what I did there?)

That's good to know. Thanks for sharing your experience.

norajean

  • Pencil Stache
  • ****
  • Posts: 602
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #10 on: December 26, 2020, 01:35:31 PM »
I would definitely get either a Corolla or GS350 in the 100,000 mile range at least five years old. Cheap, safe, comfy and reliable as hell.
« Last Edit: December 26, 2020, 06:25:30 PM by norajean »

Syonyk

  • Magnum Stache
  • ******
  • Posts: 4610
    • Syonyk's Project Blog
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #11 on: December 26, 2020, 02:27:59 PM »
Take a look at the Chevy Volt, I have owned one for 2 yrs now and have been very happy. It can run off electric or gas, it goes maybe 50 miles on a charge, my work is about 5 miles away so I almost never use gas unless I'm taking a long trip. End up using maybe 8 gallons a month or so. But it is nice to have the option to run it off gas when you need to. It only needs an oil change about once a year, uses regen braking so the brakes last a long time. Very low maintenance overall.

Definitely agree with the Volt option, and logged in to post nearly exactly this.  I went into some detail on it a while ago in a blog post.

https://syonyk.blogspot.com/2019/07/i-bought-used-chevy-volt-and-you-should-too.html

A used Gen 1 should get you 30-40 miles of all electric range before the motor kicks in, a Gen 2 should get you 50-70 miles before the motor kicks in.  Less in the winter, but... it doesn't matter, because you have a gas motor to handle the difference if needed (and the Volts will typically run the gas motor in the winter for heat anyway - there are ways around it if you're only doing short trips, but it really doesn't burn that much gas and heats the cabin up nicely).

I have always liked small cars.  I think a Honda Civic is the largest car I've ever had. 

The Volt isn't huge, though it's not tiny either.  It's roughly the same size of a comparable year Civic.

Quote
I may or may not get a traditional job.  If I do, it would only be if I can find something 15 miles or less from home. (CRAZY traffic any further out that would easily be an hour+ commute.)  If not, this would be for errands, and DH might use it on the days a couple times a month he goes to another site about 30-40 miles away.

A 30 mile daily round trip is well within the range of even a Gen 1 (2011-2015) except for winter, and trivial for a Gen 2 (2016-2019) year round.  A 30-40 mile away site would be "one way on electrons" with the Gen 1, and you could make most of the trip on electrons with the Gen 2, depending on speed and weather (80mph on the interstate requires more energy than 45mph on backroads).

And, of course, with the gas engine, you could drive it across the country if you need.  It's a fully capable "do everything" car that happens to also be quite cheap and clean to run for the common case short trips around town.

Further, when the battery degrades over time (which happens, not nearly as bad as on a Leaf or something, but the older 1st gens are seeing some battery range loss), it never hits a wall where the car is suddenly unable to make a trip.  If you're making a 30 mile round trip, and the car degrades to 28 miles of battery range, well... ok, you use a hair more gas at the end of the trip.  Not a big deal, and it doesn't fundamentally render the car useless for the mission.  If you have to take some long detour after work, same thing - you might burn a bit of gas, but there's no real concern about the battery pack getting useless.

Quote
If you were in my shoes, what would you buy (make, model, and maybe year range of a few years)?

Gen 2 Volt.  The 2016s will be hard to find unless you're in CA, so consider a 2017, with under 50k miles, and you'll be perfectly fine.

Villanelle

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 6651
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #12 on: December 26, 2020, 02:47:48 PM »
Unless I misunderstand something, it sounds like your husband already has a car that works for his commute that can also be used for going to the further away sites. So all you need is a vehicle for getting around town, at most about 30 miles per day though typically just a few miles per day. In this situation I would totally go for a used Nissan Leaf which you should be able to find for under $10k. The Leaf's are known for battery degradation so that's something to watch out for. But anything over 50 miles of real world range (maybe 75 for some extra buffer) is more than sufficient for your needs. And there's no need for a special charger in your case, a standard 3-prong 120v connection is enough to cover your typical usage.

He does have a car that would work, and we'd only swap for the longer drives because mine will get better mileage, but it's certainly not a requirement.  I have considered plug-ins (and asked about them in a thread a few weeks ago) but we move often and I have concerns about living in a place where it couldn't be plugged in.  Our current townhouse, for example, only has street, non-reserved parking so it would be essentially impossible.  Since we never know where we will live in even a few years, I have concerns about a car that *only* plugs in, though I haven't ruled it out.   A plug in/ICE  hybrid is also a possibility. 

Villanelle

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 6651
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #13 on: December 26, 2020, 02:57:59 PM »
I'm going to have to take a much closer look at the Volt!  Thanks!

kanga1622

  • Bristles
  • ***
  • Posts: 420
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #14 on: December 26, 2020, 03:47:13 PM »
We are a one car family with a 2013 Nissan Altima. Love this car. Bought it used in 2014 with about 15k miles and have had zero issues with it. Good sized trunk, comfortable headrests (headrest angle was a reason we vetoed several other cars), and decent sized back seat for our kids.

When we look for a new car in a few years as kids start driving, we’d absolutely look at other Nissans. DH is also quite fond of the Chevy Malibus that he drives for work. Most of them are 1-5 years old at this point and he finds them to have a comfortable seat and easy ride.

Mr. Green

  • Magnum Stache
  • ******
  • Posts: 4493
  • Age: 40
  • Location: Wilmington, NC
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #15 on: December 26, 2020, 04:19:17 PM »
Recent year Hyundai Elantras have been fantastic cars and their styling gives everyone a run for their money. Korean engineers design everything in the car to make it easier to work on yourself, if you're so mechanically inclined. They get great gas mileage and they sell a ton of units every year, making replacement parts inexpensive and easy to find. The kicker is that for whatever reason, their long term value has not increased with their design and longevity improvements over the last decade so you can find used models under 100,000 with tons of life life in then for very reasonable prices.

We had two 2013's and when we sold my wife's two years ago (needed a bigger car), it had 97k miles on it and the resale value was only about $7,500 in near mint condition. Those cars will run 300,000 miles if treated well.

If we ever needed to go back to two cars we'd most likely buy a used Elantra.

ColoradoTribe

  • Bristles
  • ***
  • Posts: 362
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #16 on: December 26, 2020, 05:19:52 PM »
Unless I misunderstand something, it sounds like your husband already has a car that works for his commute that can also be used for going to the further away sites. So all you need is a vehicle for getting around town, at most about 30 miles per day though typically just a few miles per day. In this situation I would totally go for a used Nissan Leaf which you should be able to find for under $10k. The Leaf's are known for battery degradation so that's something to watch out for. But anything over 50 miles of real world range (maybe 75 for some extra buffer) is more than sufficient for your needs. And there's no need for a special charger in your case, a standard 3-prong 120v connection is enough to cover your typical usage.

Agree with this. I bought a 2013 LEAF new. For cost of ownership (cheap fuel, low maintenance, no costly repairs), its hard to beat an EV. If considering, I would buy a 2014 LEAF or newer. As long as you can plug into a 120v outlet at night, you'll be covered for all your local driving and you have the gas car for the occasional longer hauls. A used Model 3 Tesla would be more expensive and harder to find, but would also hold its value better. There are certainly good used combustion engine options out there, but if you are looking to hold onto this vehicle for any period of time I think the switch to EVs is accelerating rapidly and will start to effect ICE vehicle resale values in the not to distant future (2-5 years). No body wanted a blackberry once the iPhone came out.

FINate

  • Magnum Stache
  • ******
  • Posts: 3114
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #17 on: December 26, 2020, 05:30:36 PM »
Unless I misunderstand something, it sounds like your husband already has a car that works for his commute that can also be used for going to the further away sites. So all you need is a vehicle for getting around town, at most about 30 miles per day though typically just a few miles per day. In this situation I would totally go for a used Nissan Leaf which you should be able to find for under $10k. The Leaf's are known for battery degradation so that's something to watch out for. But anything over 50 miles of real world range (maybe 75 for some extra buffer) is more than sufficient for your needs. And there's no need for a special charger in your case, a standard 3-prong 120v connection is enough to cover your typical usage.

He does have a car that would work, and we'd only swap for the longer drives because mine will get better mileage, but it's certainly not a requirement.  I have considered plug-ins (and asked about them in a thread a few weeks ago) but we move often and I have concerns about living in a place where it couldn't be plugged in.  Our current townhouse, for example, only has street, non-reserved parking so it would be essentially impossible.  Since we never know where we will live in even a few years, I have concerns about a car that *only* plugs in, though I haven't ruled it out.   A plug in/ICE  hybrid is also a possibility.

Makes sense. Hopefully parking with EV charging becomes more of a common amenity for rentals in the future.

Paper Chaser

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1851
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #18 on: December 26, 2020, 06:40:01 PM »
The Volt is a good suggestion. My only quibbles with the Volt are the need for premium unleaded fuel and the lack of a center seat in the rear (it's a dedicated 4 seater). The second generation Volts (MY2016-2019) remedied both of those issues while also increasing EV range, but you pay more for them too.

Another decent, oft overlooked PHEV is the Ford CMAX Energi. It doesn't have as much all electric range as the Volt, but it uses regular unleaded fuel. The body is also shaped differently, as the CMax is taller but shorter in length while offering a more traditional hatchback profile that may be more functional than the Volt's liftback hatch. The taller cabin means the CMax has over 3" more headroom for front and rear seat passengers than the Volt too.

The Hyundai Ioniq PHEV is falling into similar price range as the other two suggestions as well and would absolutely be a contender if I were shopping for a used PHEV in the $10-15k range.

AccidentialMustache

  • Pencil Stache
  • ****
  • Posts: 927
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #19 on: December 26, 2020, 07:04:39 PM »
BMW i3 with the range extender option? If you can charge it, do that. If you can't, it will use gas and do it for you using the range extender. They are quirky looking (to put it mildly), tall hatchbacks -- about the same size as a Honda Fit. You can find them used for under 15k.

alsoknownasDean

  • Magnum Stache
  • ******
  • Posts: 2843
  • Age: 39
  • Location: Melbourne, Australia
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #20 on: December 26, 2020, 07:13:21 PM »
How many miles per year do you plan to drive? Is it just the two of you or do you have kids? Any hobbies where off road/ground clearance/tow ratings matter?

I'd probably start with a lightly used Hyundai Elantra or Kia Forte. Alternatively a Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Honda Civic, etc.

If the next size down works for you, have a look at the Kia Rio, Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, etc.

A Prius or similar is a worthwhile option, especially if you do a lot of miles, but that depends on the price difference compared to a normal gas vehicle.
« Last Edit: December 26, 2020, 07:17:11 PM by alsoknownasDean »

Sailor Sam

  • CMTO 2023 Attendees
  • Walrus Stache
  • *
  • Posts: 5731
  • Age: 43
  • Location: Steel Beach
  • Semper...something
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #21 on: December 26, 2020, 08:43:09 PM »
I’d choose what size car I thought would serve me best, then buy whatever car had the best safety rating in that size. If it comes in orange, that’s always a bonus ;)

Syonyk

  • Magnum Stache
  • ******
  • Posts: 4610
    • Syonyk's Project Blog
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #22 on: December 26, 2020, 09:23:55 PM »
The Volt is a good suggestion. My only quibbles with the Volt are the need for premium unleaded fuel and the lack of a center seat in the rear (it's a dedicated 4 seater). The second generation Volts (MY2016-2019) remedied both of those issues while also increasing EV range, but you pay more for them too.

If you're using enough gas that the difference between premium and lower octane makes a real difference, the Volt probably isn't the right car for you anyway - you're likely better covered by a Prius (high-MPG gas) or a long range pure electric (still $$$).  Handwaving at some numbers based on our Volt (200mpg average, we'll say 12k miles/yr and ignore 2020), that's 60 gallons of gas a year.  $2.09 for regular, $2.39 for premium right now, the difference is $18 annually.  For the difference in cost between a used Gen1 and a used Gen2, $18/yr is the better deal.  ;)  Though, yes, it's a dedicated 4 seater.  No way around that.

I just run premium in everything, including the archaic tractor (80 years old and likely very confused by this modern premium stuff), because enough stuff on the property requires it that my "property fuel" blend is ethanol free premium, Stabil, and Seafoam.  It's a tank-stable fuel that basically eliminates any requirement to winterize (or summerize, for the snowblower and my office generator) equipment, because it's fine for about a year and a half in a tank without any real problems.  Plus, I can run it in the car if I need to.

BMW i3 with the range extender option? If you can charge it, do that. If you can't, it will use gas and do it for you using the range extender. They are quirky looking (to put it mildly), tall hatchbacks -- about the same size as a Honda Fit. You can find them used for under 15k.

I would advise strongly against this option.  The range extender in the i3 is a peanut tank (1.9 gallons usable in US trim, 2.6 if you flash the EU firmware) that makes the car into a gutless wonder (on the US firmware... EU firmware gives you a hold mode so you can save the battery for running up a mountain an hour into the trip).  It is not the same category as a Volt, which is a perfectly workable gas car if you can't charge.  The i3 is an electric with an "Oh crap..." motor, it's not a flagship gasoline plant like the Volts have.  Running one on pure gas would be maddening - you'd be filling the tank every day or two if you couldn't charge.

I’d choose what size car I thought would serve me best, then buy whatever car had the best safety rating in that size. If it comes in orange, that’s always a bonus ;)

That... sounds an expensive way to go about buying cars.

Sailor Sam

  • CMTO 2023 Attendees
  • Walrus Stache
  • *
  • Posts: 5731
  • Age: 43
  • Location: Steel Beach
  • Semper...something
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #23 on: December 26, 2020, 10:03:40 PM »
I’d choose what size car I thought would serve me best, then buy whatever car had the best safety rating in that size. If it comes in orange, that’s always a bonus ;)
That... sounds an expensive way to go about buying cars.

I can make it worse! I personally only buy new cars.

It’s a hard earned preference, that I’m not at all interested in debating. Unless you’re discussing the ‘orange.’ In that case, I’d only pay mebbe a hundred bucks extra.


Khaetra

  • Pencil Stache
  • ****
  • Posts: 719
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #24 on: December 27, 2020, 07:41:55 AM »
I’d choose what size car I thought would serve me best, then buy whatever car had the best safety rating in that size. If it comes in orange, that’s always a bonus ;)

The orange part would totally be what my son would say (he was sad when I had to junk my orange mustang).

As far as buying, I do what you do too.  Pick which car will suit all my needs, has the tech/features I most want, check safety ratings and go from there.

OP: If a hybrid/electric doesn't do it for you, take a peek at Toyota (Yaris) or Mazda (Mazda3/CX3).  Both get good mileage and are pretty much hassle-free when it comes to maintenance.

Villanelle

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 6651
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #25 on: December 27, 2020, 11:32:49 AM »
How many miles per year do you plan to drive? Is it just the two of you or do you have kids? Any hobbies where off road/ground clearance/tow ratings matter?

I'd probably start with a lightly used Hyundai Elantra or Kia Forte. Alternatively a Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Honda Civic, etc.

If the next size down works for you, have a look at the Kia Rio, Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris, etc.

A Prius or similar is a worthwhile option, especially if you do a lot of miles, but that depends on the price difference compared to a normal gas vehicle.

No kids, just two non-tall adults; no special hobbies that require anything larger than a guitar.  Truly, the smallest car on the market is not only large enough, but frankly still probably too large to be ideal. Having lived in Japan for a number of years, I would happily have brought my small Japanese vehicle with me! 

Miles per year would likely be ~~~5,000, as a guess, though every move seems to create a lifestyle shift that sometimes has surprising repercussions.   But I don't think I've ever driven more than 10,000 miles in a year in my life.  I like the idea of a hybrid of some kind, but the more research I do, the more uncertain I become about the cost effectiveness when I drive so little.

facepalm

  • Bristles
  • ***
  • Posts: 431
  • Location: California
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #26 on: December 27, 2020, 07:12:00 PM »
I may have missed it, but has no one suggested a Honda Fit? Super reliable, decent mileage, but even more important, they are super maneuverable in traffic and have tons of room for cargo. Super easy to park. I have a lead foot and get 32 mpg in mine.

BussoV6

  • Bristles
  • ***
  • Posts: 287
  • Location: Egoli
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #27 on: December 28, 2020, 04:44:24 AM »
Buy the best Miata you can find for your budget. At least it's a little fun to drive.

max924

  • 5 O'Clock Shadow
  • *
  • Posts: 41
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #28 on: December 28, 2020, 08:10:58 AM »
We recently went down from a 2 car household to a single car household. We had a 2010 Toyota Yaris and a 2017 Chevy Volt. We kept the Volt, which has been a great car, mostly because our driving is around town (so all electric) and it is newer (has more 'frills' than the Yaris did). Saying that, I absolutely loved my Yaris. It is a barebones type of car, but does what it is intended to do, and does it well (point A to point B). It is cheap to purchase and cheap to maintain. The smaller and simpler the car, the lower the maintenance cost.

So if you want a newer car I recommend a 2nd gen Volt. If you just want a car, I recommend a Toyota Yaris (mine was a sedan, hatchbacks are good too).

ericrugiero

  • Pencil Stache
  • ****
  • Posts: 740
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #29 on: December 28, 2020, 10:52:58 AM »
No kids, just two non-tall adults; no special hobbies that require anything larger than a guitar.  Truly, the smallest car on the market is not only large enough, but frankly still probably too large to be ideal. Having lived in Japan for a number of years, I would happily have brought my small Japanese vehicle with me! 

Miles per year would likely be ~~~5,000, as a guess, though every move seems to create a lifestyle shift that sometimes has surprising repercussions.   But I don't think I've ever driven more than 10,000 miles in a year in my life.  I like the idea of a hybrid of some kind, but the more research I do, the more uncertain I become about the cost effectiveness when I drive so little.

With the low number of miles and the preference for small cars (which will all get pretty good MPG) the efficiency won't matter as much as the initial purchase price and the reliability. 

Lots of good options have been mentioned above.  I personally would prioritize a reliable car that you like. 

Toyota Prius, Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic and Mazda 3 are all good options.  Nissan Sentra's tend to have transmission problems around 100K miles but you could find a deal on one with 40K and be good for quite a few years at 5K/year.

edit:  Subaru Impreza or Crosstrek is probably the best option if you want AWD. 
« Last Edit: December 28, 2020, 10:55:50 AM by ericrugiero »

Villanelle

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 6651
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #30 on: December 28, 2020, 12:48:34 PM »
We recently went down from a 2 car household to a single car household. We had a 2010 Toyota Yaris and a 2017 Chevy Volt. We kept the Volt, which has been a great car, mostly because our driving is around town (so all electric) and it is newer (has more 'frills' than the Yaris did). Saying that, I absolutely loved my Yaris. It is a barebones type of car, but does what it is intended to do, and does it well (point A to point B). It is cheap to purchase and cheap to maintain. The smaller and simpler the car, the lower the maintenance cost.

So if you want a newer car I recommend a 2nd gen Volt. If you just want a car, I recommend a Toyota Yaris (mine was a sedan, hatchbacks are good too).

My last car in the US was a Toyota Echo (2000, sold in 2019, with less than 100k milesl wish I could get it back!), which was the [uglier] precursor to the Yaris.  I could likely be very happy with a Yaris. 

Model96

  • Stubble
  • **
  • Posts: 169
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #31 on: December 28, 2020, 04:43:15 PM »
Yaris is a good choice, so is a small Hyundai. Small Honda would be a close third choice for mechanics who like a quiet life :)

American GenX

  • Pencil Stache
  • ****
  • Posts: 948
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #32 on: December 28, 2020, 05:57:15 PM »
Yaris is a good choice, so is a small Hyundai. Small Honda would be a close third choice for mechanics who like a quiet life :)

I thought I was going to buy a brand new Yaris back in 2006.  But then I test drove the new model Camry 2007.  I just couldn't settle for the Yaris after driving the Camry, and I figured I could justify it because I thought I would be happier with the Camry and stick with it longer before wanting something else - estimating 8 years at that time.  Well, here I am over 14 year later, and I'm still driving the Camry.  I would like a Prius, not just for the gas mileage, but they are known to be very reliable as well and have nice cargo capacity compared to my Camry.  I don't see myself making any vehicles changes anytime soon, though.

Sibley

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 7428
  • Location: Northwest Indiana
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #33 on: December 28, 2020, 06:14:56 PM »
I did just buy a car last year. Honda Fit. Very happy with it.

neo von retorch

  • Magnum Stache
  • ******
  • Posts: 4918
  • Location: SE PA
    • Fi@retorch - personal finance tracking
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #34 on: December 28, 2020, 07:10:02 PM »
Have owned Chevy, Honda, Dodge, Nissan, Mazda, Acura, Subaru... years ranging from 1983 through 2015.

Two of those were Honda Fits. Cannot really recommend them enough. Versatile - useful hatchback space. Frugal - (relatively) inexpensive to buy, super cheap to maintain (and easy enough to do yourself), good enough gas mileage (32-38mpg depending on driving style), quite reliable powertrains.

Nissan/Mazda are interesting. Never quite up to Toyota/Honda standards of precise reliability, but their resale value reflects this. Used Nissan/Mazda can be really good deals and something like 80-90% as reliable. But be a good mustachian and get a cheap trim level - you don't want big rims and expensive tires, headlights, etc. (Speaking from experience as a bad mustachian with a high trim level Mazda.)

If you can find a Honda Fit for around the same price as a comparable Nissan/Mazda... get it. (Mazda 3 is more expensive NEW than Honda Fit but half decent chance this has flipped 5 years in. And stock of Honda Fits is generally lower because people know they are great!)

mwulff

  • Bristles
  • ***
  • Posts: 329
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #35 on: December 29, 2020, 07:59:52 AM »
If you are looking for a second car to be a round-around town car then nothing beats a pure EV. If you are in the USA there are a lot tax incentives you can take advantage of.

People in this thread have mentioned the Nissan Leaf and I would concur that the pre-2014 models had more battery degradation than most. But when that is said the rest of the car is rock solid and requires basically no maintenance.

https://electrek.co/2020/12/28/huge-year-end-discounts-and-rebates-drive-the-cost-of-new-evs-below-20k/

I would argue that getting a Leaf (or another car) brand new for around $20.000 and driving it into the ground will be cheaper than an old beater. The new ones have a 40 kWh battery and decent range for a 2nd car.

An overlooked superb car is the Hyundai Ioniq EV (not the PHEV). The range is decent and it charges like crazy, it can actually match a Tesla Model 3 on a long roadtrip (if there are charges available).

I would say the mustachian choice could very well be a new EV.

John Galt incarnate!

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 2038
  • Location: On Cloud Nine
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #36 on: December 29, 2020, 08:12:18 AM »
This informative thread has piqued my interest in small vehicles.

I've changed my mind about the small vehicle I'd buy for myself.

Instead of a small SUV I'd buy a  hatchback or compact hatchback.

Do all or most hatchbacks/compact hatchbacks  feature a front passenger seat with a back that folds down to allow for long cargo like a surfboard?

dignam

  • Pencil Stache
  • ****
  • Posts: 626
  • Location: Badger State
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #37 on: December 29, 2020, 08:50:06 AM »
If you're not set on EV, I'd give small crossovers/small SUVs/hatchbacks a good look as their fuel economy is becoming very comparable to sedans lately.

Obviously on the overall higher end of reliability would be Toyota.  However, you will be paying for that in used vehicles.  IMO, the prices people demand for used Toyotas generally borders on asinine.  Might be better off buying new and driving into the ground if set on Toyota.

One of my biggest regrets was getting rid of my older Ford Escape.  Bought it for relatively cheap, sold it for relatively cheap.  Loved that car, so versatile and tons of space for a smaller SUV.

GF has a Mazda CX-3 which she loves.  It's a nice ride, gets pretty good mileage too.  My only gripe is the tiny gas tank and it's a wee bit too small inside.  Our dog is a bit cramped in the back seat so she tends to ride in my car.

Khaetra

  • Pencil Stache
  • ****
  • Posts: 719
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #38 on: December 29, 2020, 09:00:58 AM »
Do all or most hatchbacks/compact hatchbacks  feature a front passenger seat with a back that folds down to allow for long cargo like a surfboard?

My Fit does.  For the size it really holds quite a bit and the front seat does fold down to fit long items.  Perhaps owners of Mazda hatchbacks and Yaris's can chime in?

jrhampt

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 2016
  • Age: 46
  • Location: Connecticut
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #39 on: December 29, 2020, 09:44:03 AM »
I replaced an old Toyota Echo (my parents are still driving it) with a Honda Fit a few years back.  I love the storage capabilities of the Fit and it's just as reliable as the Echo (only thing it ever needs is tires, oil change, and occasional battery replacements, maybe some rare attention to brakes), but it doesn't get the great gas mileage of the Echo (32mpg vs 40ish mpg).  My top priorities in a car are reliability, reasonable price, and good mpg.  My next car will likely be a used Prius Prime or a used Hyundai Ioniq plug in hybrid (both mentioned above, I believe).  These both get fantastic gas mileage but also have enough electric range that I'd probably rarely need to use gas at all, and it sounds like that would be the case for you as well.  My only concern with the Hyundai Ioniq is that I don't know if it's as reliable as the Hondas/Toyotas that I've loved in the past.  I think the Hyundais are starting to develop a good track record, but I'm keeping an eye on it.  I might decide to bequeath the Fit on to my parents next year since it still has plenty of life in it and the Echo is starting to show its age, but used cars are in short supply right now and selling for higher prices than usual.  As I work from home (same as always, even before the pandemic) and really go nowhere now due to the pandemic (brunch, the gym etc are all out right now so I go almost everywhere on foot and get groceries within a couple of miles of home), I may wait until I get vaccinated and resume my daily commute to the Y.  Hopefully by then the used car prices will start going down a bit.

PMG

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1608
  • Location: USA
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #40 on: December 29, 2020, 09:53:01 AM »
We bought a 2018 Toyota (Yaris) IA just a little bit used in 2019 and we regularly thank it for being such a great little car.  We average 42+ mpg, easy to maneuver.  Maybe it doesn't have the get up and go of a larger engine but it still does the job. The user interface is clunky and not intuitive, I think the 2019 model had a serious upgrade to make that better. I had initially wanted a hybrid but would have spent more for an older hybrid with poorer gas mileage, so we went with the IA and we really like it and plan to keep it a long time.

roomtempmayo

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1141
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #41 on: December 29, 2020, 10:55:49 AM »
Do all or most hatchbacks/compact hatchbacks  feature a front passenger seat with a back that folds down to allow for long cargo like a surfboard?

My Fit does.  For the size it really holds quite a bit and the front seat does fold down to fit long items.  Perhaps owners of Mazda hatchbacks and Yaris's can chime in?

Our Toyota Matrix does, too.  I would guess that also holds for the Pontiac Vibe.

Villanelle

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 6651
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #42 on: December 29, 2020, 10:59:06 AM »
Have owned Chevy, Honda, Dodge, Nissan, Mazda, Acura, Subaru... years ranging from 1983 through 2015.

Two of those were Honda Fits. Cannot really recommend them enough. Versatile - useful hatchback space. Frugal - (relatively) inexpensive to buy, super cheap to maintain (and easy enough to do yourself), good enough gas mileage (32-38mpg depending on driving style), quite reliable powertrains.

Nissan/Mazda are interesting. Never quite up to Toyota/Honda standards of precise reliability, but their resale value reflects this. Used Nissan/Mazda can be really good deals and something like 80-90% as reliable. But be a good mustachian and get a cheap trim level - you don't want big rims and expensive tires, headlights, etc. (Speaking from experience as a bad mustachian with a high trim level Mazda.)

If you can find a Honda Fit for around the same price as a comparable Nissan/Mazda... get it. (Mazda 3 is more expensive NEW than Honda Fit but half decent chance this has flipped 5 years in. And stock of Honda Fits is generally lower because people know they are great!)

The only fancy trim level things I kinda want are a read back up camera, and heated seats.  I know I could live without both, but am not sure I need to. 

I had started a car search before I realized we would be fine with one car.  This was few years ago, at that time, it felt like I was zeroing in on a Honda Fit, a Versa Note, or a Prius.  Even a few years ago, the used EV/PHEV market was a lot different and I was a lot less aware of them so those weren't much of a factor, but I may end up back to that list anyway. 

Villanelle

  • Walrus Stache
  • *******
  • Posts: 6651
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #43 on: December 29, 2020, 11:00:11 AM »
We bought a 2018 Toyota (Yaris) IA just a little bit used in 2019 and we regularly thank it for being such a great little car.  We average 42+ mpg, easy to maneuver.  Maybe it doesn't have the get up and go of a larger engine but it still does the job. The user interface is clunky and not intuitive, I think the 2019 model had a serious upgrade to make that better. I had initially wanted a hybrid but would have spent more for an older hybrid with poorer gas mileage, so we went with the IA and we really like it and plan to keep it a long time.

How is the road noise on the 2018 Yaris?  My only complaint about my Echo was that it was very load, especially on the highway. 

ericrugiero

  • Pencil Stache
  • ****
  • Posts: 740
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #44 on: December 29, 2020, 11:07:28 AM »
One thing to keep in mind is that there are diminishing returns as you increase the fuel mileage of a vehicle.  For instance, if you drive 10,000 miles per year and gas costs $2.50/gallon, increasing the MPG from 16 to 26 saves $601.  Increasing the MPG from 26 to 36 saves $268.  Going from 36 to 46 would save $151. 

With that in mind, I personally would look at something like a Toyota Corolla vs a Yaris which would cost an estimated $39/year in fuel at the OP's 5,000 miles per year.  The purchase price might be slightly higher but there are many more for sale which increases the likelihood of finding a deal.  The advantages of a Corolla include: More common parts, More support for repairs, WAY easier to sell, More comfortable, Possibly more safe.  Note that this is just my preference.  If the OP just likes the Yaris or Fit then they sound like great vehicles and will probably serve them well. 

                                                      Fuel Cost at $2.50/Gallon                                 
                                 
   MPG                                                         Miles Per Year                           
          5,000        10,000     15,000     20,000     25,000     30,000     35,000     40,000     45,000     50,000                                   
   10    $1,250     $2,500     $3,750     $5,000     $6,250     $7,500     $8,750     $10,000     $11,250     $12,500
   12    $1,042     $2,083     $3,125     $4,167     $5,208     $6,250     $7,292     $8,333     $9,375     $10,417
   14    $893     $1,786     $2,679     $3,571     $4,464     $5,357     $6,250     $7,143     $8,036     $8,929
   16    $781     $1,563     $2,344     $3,125     $3,906     $4,688     $5,469     $6,250     $7,031     $7,813
   18    $694     $1,389     $2,083     $2,778     $3,472     $4,167     $4,861     $5,556     $6,250     $6,944
   20    $625     $1,250     $1,875     $2,500     $3,125     $3,750     $4,375     $5,000     $5,625     $6,250
   22    $568     $1,136     $1,705     $2,273     $2,841     $3,409     $3,977     $4,545     $5,114     $5,682
   24    $521     $1,042     $1,563     $2,083     $2,604     $3,125     $3,646     $4,167     $4,688     $5,208
   26    $481     $962       $1,442     $1,923     $2,404     $2,885     $3,365     $3,846     $4,327     $4,808
   28    $446     $893       $1,339     $1,786     $2,232     $2,679     $3,125     $3,571     $4,018     $4,464
   30    $417     $833       $1,250     $1,667     $2,083     $2,500     $2,917     $3,333     $3,750     $4,167
   32    $391     $781       $1,172     $1,563     $1,953     $2,344     $2,734     $3,125     $3,516     $3,906
   34    $368     $735       $1,103     $1,471     $1,838     $2,206     $2,574     $2,941     $3,309     $3,676
   36    $347     $694       $1,042     $1,389     $1,736     $2,083     $2,431     $2,778     $3,125     $3,472
   38    $329     $658       $987      $1,316     $1,645     $1,974     $2,303     $2,632     $2,961     $3,289
   40    $313     $625       $938      $1,250     $1,563     $1,875     $2,188     $2,500     $2,813     $3,125
   42    $298     $595       $893      $1,190     $1,488     $1,786     $2,083     $2,381     $2,679     $2,976
   44    $284     $568       $852      $1,136     $1,420     $1,705     $1,989     $2,273     $2,557     $2,841
   46    $272     $543       $815      $1,087     $1,359     $1,630     $1,902     $2,174     $2,446     $2,717
   48    $260     $521       $781      $1,042     $1,302     $1,563     $1,823     $2,083     $2,344     $2,604
   50    $250     $500       $750      $1,000     $1,250     $1,500     $1,750     $2,000     $2,250     $2,500

PMG

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 1608
  • Location: USA
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #45 on: December 29, 2020, 11:16:41 AM »
Roadnoise: We don't notice it, but we haven't been riding in other cars so don't have much of a frame of reference. Our previous car was a 2002 Honda CRV and the Yaris seemed like big upgrade from it.

Front seat:  We don't have the hatchback.  The sedan back seats fold down but not flat and the opening from trunk to interior is not tall. I haven't tried to lay the front seat flat.  I'm skeptical of fitting a surf board, I did fit a 1 by 12 by 10 through to the front with a little bit hanging out the trunk. 

If we knew then what we know now we might have held out for a hatchback. We have hobbies, gardening, camping, biking and miss the easy hauling capacity of the CRV, but we've found ways to make the Yaris work for us.

neo von retorch

  • Magnum Stache
  • ******
  • Posts: 4918
  • Location: SE PA
    • Fi@retorch - personal finance tracking
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #46 on: December 29, 2020, 12:00:00 PM »
Do all or most hatchbacks/compact hatchbacks  feature a front passenger seat with a back that folds down to allow for long cargo like a surfboard?

In my Mazda 3 hatchback, I fold the passenger seat all the way back, and can fit stacks of 8' long boards with the hatch closed. At a certain width x length plywood becomes problematic but for most projects I can get it cut at Home Depot and then fit it - for example when I built garage shelves, I got a bunch of sheets cut to 24" x 96" and squeezed those in.

John Galt incarnate!

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 2038
  • Location: On Cloud Nine
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #47 on: December 29, 2020, 12:30:32 PM »
Do all or most hatchbacks/compact hatchbacks  feature a front passenger seat with a back that folds down to allow for long cargo like a surfboard?

In my Mazda 3 hatchback, I fold the passenger seat all the way back, and can fit stacks of 8' long boards with the hatch closed. At a certain width x length plywood becomes problematic but for most projects I can get it cut at Home Depot and then fit it - for example when I built garage shelves, I got a bunch of sheets cut to 24" x 96" and squeezed those in.

Ah!

knowing about the fit of items such as 96" boards  is EXACTLY what  I wanted to find out.

thx for answering my?.


!!!! HAPPY NEW YEAR AND HAPPY INVESTING !!!!

John Galt incarnate!

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 2038
  • Location: On Cloud Nine
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #48 on: December 29, 2020, 12:33:29 PM »
Do all or most hatchbacks/compact hatchbacks  feature a front passenger seat with a back that folds down to allow for long cargo like a surfboard?

My Fit does.  For the size it really holds quite a bit and the front seat does fold down to fit long items.  Perhaps owners of Mazda hatchbacks and Yaris's can chime in?

Our Toyota Matrix does, too.  I would guess that also holds for the Pontiac Vibe.

Noted.

John Galt incarnate!

  • Handlebar Stache
  • *****
  • Posts: 2038
  • Location: On Cloud Nine
Re: If you had to buy a car, what would you buy?
« Reply #49 on: December 29, 2020, 01:09:28 PM »
Might be better off buying new and driving into the ground if set on Toyota.



that is exactly what i did when i bought my last vehicle, a brand new toyota that i expect to keep for at least 30 years.

  i don't  care if i drive it into the ground which can't really happen in terms of high mileage since all mechanical maintenance is meticulously on schedule and  after 30 years it will have < 90,000 miles on the odometer.


i've purchased used vehicles that served me well but after selling them/giving one away (corolla) i buy  brand new vehicles so that i have the peace of mind of a warranty and knowledge of  everything about them from  the day they left the dealer.

vehicle reliability is my #1 priority.

my toyota will easily last for 300,000 miles which for me is less than i would drive it in 100 years.

Ha-ha!