Author Topic: Totalled my car, now what?  (Read 6847 times)

Bearblastbeats

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Totalled my car, now what?
« on: September 22, 2018, 06:48:58 AM »
I guess it's a blessing in disguise.

I totaled my Audi A3 the other day, I owed about 9k on the loan and was hoping to pay it off this year. Now that insurance is covering everything I will still need to get a vehicle to go to and from work and haul tools, dogs, and baby.

I know it's an unpopular opinion to consider a new car but was interested in a 18 VW tiguan because of the long warranty and the utility of the vehicle.

But I could also buy a 2003 Allroad in cash for 3k and not have a car payment for a few years hopefully, and expedite the pay off of student loans and saving for a house.

Thoughts?

WhiteTrashCash

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #1 on: September 22, 2018, 06:53:00 AM »
Get a used hatchback with high fuel economy. Don't get a clown SUV like all the "rugged soccer Moms and NASCAR Dads." Nobody needs a truck unless they are using it for contractor work and nobody needs an SUV period.

friedmmj

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #2 on: September 22, 2018, 06:58:51 AM »
I guess it's a blessing in disguise.

I totaled my Audi A3 the other day, I owed about 9k on the loan and was hoping to pay it off this year. Now that insurance is covering everything I will still need to get a vehicle to go to and from work and haul tools, dogs, and baby.

I know it's an unpopular opinion to consider a new car but was interested in a 18 VW tiguan because of the long warranty and the utility of the vehicle.

But I could also buy a 2003 Allroad in cash for 3k and not have a car payment for a few years hopefully, and expedite the pay off of student loans and saving for a house.

Thoughts?

has the insurance company calculated your payout yet?  If not, you may want to see what they give you before deciding.

Bearblastbeats

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #3 on: September 22, 2018, 07:07:44 AM »
I guess it's a blessing in disguise.

I totaled my Audi A3 the other day, I owed about 9k on the loan and was hoping to pay it off this year. Now that insurance is covering everything I will still need to get a vehicle to go to and from work and haul tools, dogs, and baby.

I know it's an unpopular opinion to consider a new car but was interested in a 18 VW tiguan because of the long warranty and the utility of the vehicle.

But I could also buy a 2003 Allroad in cash for 3k and not have a car payment for a few years hopefully, and expedite the pay off of student loans and saving for a house.

Thoughts?

has the insurance company calculated your payout yet?  If not, you may want to see what they give you before deciding.

I am doubtful that I'll see a payout. The car was only worth about 6500, so gap insurance is covering the difference.

matchewed

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #4 on: September 22, 2018, 07:21:29 AM »
So your tiny car which you somehow managed to juggle the tools, dog, and baby is totaled and you need to upgrade to a monster vehicle to suddenly manage those things?

singpolyma

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #5 on: September 22, 2018, 08:02:48 AM »
Buying new is just throwing money away. Buy at least 1 year old (if you must buy something so new) to save the "drive it off the lot" depreciation.

But you already know the drill. Car free if you can, but if you temporarily cannot then get the least car you can find that fits your current use case until you can rearrange life to need even less.

RWD

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #6 on: September 22, 2018, 08:27:25 AM »
Your options are a brand new Tiguan CUV or known money pit 15 year-old Allroad? I think you need to add a few more options in between. Look for something 5-10 years old from a Japanese manufacturer if you want to maximize your dollar.

Dave1442397

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #7 on: September 22, 2018, 09:11:10 AM »
I wouldn't buy a VW or Audi if I were planning to keep the car after the warranty runs out.


DreamFIRE

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #8 on: September 22, 2018, 09:15:06 AM »
Don't buy a one year old car, buy one that is a few years old to get a better deal.
https://forum.mrmoneymustache.com/welcome-to-the-forum/bought-a-new-car-do-i-deserve-a-facepunch/

When my last car became unusable, I bought a brand new one.  It's on its 13th year and still going strong with low miles.

Bearblastbeats

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #9 on: September 22, 2018, 09:19:13 AM »
We usually try to answer these questions in a void, not knowing your actual financial picture - i.e. income level, time left until you're Financially Independent, etc.

Really we already have a "framework" for these decisions, and you just have to plug in the numbers.

Assuming this is the last car you ever buy ;)

How much will $25,000 spent today affect your time to FI?
If you plan on spending $40k per year in retirement, and expect to reach FI in 8 years, that $25k spent today has an opportunity cost (7% return on investment) exceeding $40k, or one year of expenses! If you currently save $20k per year towards being FI, you might be talking about well over 2 years of additional working so you can buy this car.

Of course, the numbers are all made up and the points don't mean anything. Fill in your own numbers and figure out how many months/years of extra work you'll end up needing so you can pay for this car.

(None of the more expensive purchase option is based on "need" but I think you knew that, or at least, everyone else pointed it out already.)

Current situation.

In:
Main job: 73k annually
Side job: 10k - 30k dependent on hours

Debts
Student loans: ~7k @ 5%

Out:
Rent: $1270 (gf pays 400-600 dependent on her checks)
Phone: $100 (just obtained this since I left a job that gave me one)
Heat: $50/m average
Electric: $50/m average

Everything else is food, fuel, dog food and supplies which varies.

Edit: I'm a project manager and am required to travel to jobsites daily, I average +20k miles a year on a car. Sometimes an required to haul materials and tools to sites (also when I am installing flooring for my side gig), and drums, guitars and amps.
« Last Edit: September 22, 2018, 09:24:33 AM by Bearblastbeats »

englishteacheralex

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #10 on: September 22, 2018, 09:35:57 AM »
What's your net worth? -$7k?

We have two toddlers, two adults with full time jobs, and no pets. Our car strategy is to buy (heavily) used cars and drive them for a decade. I don't think much of Audis or Tiguans (Consumer Reports does not like Tiguans). Never heard of an Allroad.

We buy Japanese econo cars. They are cheap, reliable, and easy to repair. Our desired brands are Toyota, Honda, and Mazda. We avoid Nissan (more complicated repairs), American made cars (sorry, they have a bad reputation, although we briefly considered a Ford Focus), and anything more exotic than that (nope, VW is not an option--terrible track record for repairs; expensive parts; no way).

Currently we own a 2003 Toyota Matrix (purchased 2016 for $3500) and a 2009 Mazda 5 (purchased 2017 for $4600). Our net worth is ~$330k. We have not had to do any repairs to either of these cars since we bought them. Before that we had a couple of 1999 Corollas.

If we had to put more miles on a car, I'd probably buy slightly newer used cars and shell out a couple extra thousand bucks. So maybe a 2010 or newer Matrix/Pontiac Vibe/Honda Fit. If I were in your shoes, that's what I'd be looking for. Try to keep your price range $5k-$8k.

Unless your net worth is north of half a million dollars. Then I guess go ahead and buy a (used) clown car. Still wouldn't buy a VW. I've known too many people who have had to spend a lot of money and time on VW repairs from the one shop in town that works on VWs.

Glenstache

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #11 on: September 22, 2018, 10:09:14 AM »
It sounds like you need a 90s 2wd Toyota plain pickup truck with a 4cylinder engine. Cheap, will carry materials and tools safely, and be cheap to operate. Get a cheap shell/canopy to keep things contained. I’d recommend splurging for the extended cab.

Glenstache

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #12 on: September 22, 2018, 10:11:05 AM »
Even if you have a check from the insurance company that will “pay” for a new car, you are still paying 5% on 7k of that because of your loan debt. Increase your badassity, pay off that loan and get vehicle that is a tool.

the_gastropod

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #13 on: September 22, 2018, 10:28:16 AM »
It sounds like you need a 90s 2wd Toyota plain pickup truck with a 4cylinder engine. Cheap, will carry materials and tools safely, and be cheap to operate. Get a cheap shell/canopy to keep things contained. I’d recommend splurging for the extended cab.

Second this! My dad drove an ‘01 Tacoma that had over 200k miles on it. The thing still ran like new when he sold it in January. The things are dirt cheap and just indestructible.

SoBurntImCharred

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #14 on: September 22, 2018, 02:34:37 PM »
Lots of good suggestions already, especially the Matrix. I would also suggest something used and reliable. While I love wagons, Allroads are notoriously unreliable, as are basically all used Audis. The Tacoma or older pickup may be a fun option if a truck is really necessary, but they get crap mileage and it sounds like you can get by with a hatchback, as you have been previously.

The Matrix comes with a sporty option that has a 2.0L engine designed by Yamaha. It's high-revving, reliable, and still returns good fuel economy. In addition to a Matrix, I would consider something a little funky like a Scion xB or a Nissan Cube. All offer more space than it appears, especially with a roof rack. For any of these economy options, go with a manual transmission. Economy automatics are horrible and will suck the fun out of an otherwise engaging car.

Get a cheap car and enjoy the extra financial freedom that gives you. Good luck!

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Clean Shaven

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #15 on: September 22, 2018, 02:49:16 PM »
The Audi Allroad is so ridiculously unreliable that it forms the basis by which all other unreliable cars are ranked.

https://dougdemuro.kinja.com/german-reliability-the-greatest-myth-ever-sold-to-amer-1572026115


Bearblastbeats

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #16 on: September 22, 2018, 05:49:06 PM »
Lots of good suggestions already, especially the Matrix. I would also suggest something used and reliable. While I love wagons, Allroads are notoriously unreliable, as are basically all used Audis. The Tacoma or older pickup may be a fun option if a truck is really necessary, but they get crap mileage and it sounds like you can get by with a hatchback, as you have been previously.

The Matrix comes with a sporty option that has a 2.0L engine designed by Yamaha. It's high-revving, reliable, and still returns good fuel economy. In addition to a Matrix, I would consider something a little funky like a Scion xB or a Nissan Cube. All offer more space than it appears, especially with a roof rack. For any of these economy options, go with a manual transmission. Economy automatics are horrible and will suck the fun out of an otherwise engaging car.

Get a cheap car and enjoy the extra financial freedom that gives you. Good luck!

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I test drove a Q5 and felt very meh about it.

Also drove a 2018 Tiguan. Quite impressed.

RWD

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #17 on: September 22, 2018, 06:07:14 PM »
Also drove a 2018 Tiguan. Quite impressed.

But is it twice as good as a 2013 Tiguan? Hint: the 2018 has less horsepower than the 2013 while only getting 1 mpg better fuel economy.

Freedomin5

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #18 on: September 22, 2018, 06:21:42 PM »
You do realize that this is the MMM forums? If you want people to support your thinking in buying a luxury gas guzzling SUV that feels like Smooth Luxury on Wheels, you may want to try a different forum.

But I’m assuming that you are here because you want to learn how to get to FIRE quickly and efficiently, so most folks here will tell you to buy something economical and dependable that will help you get to FIRE sooner while still living a decently comfortable life.

Papa bear

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #19 on: September 22, 2018, 06:27:18 PM »
Used minivan. Ready go.


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ObviouslyNotAGolfer

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #20 on: September 22, 2018, 06:27:39 PM »
Get an old Volvo 240 or 740 series wagon. Price of entry can be less than $1K, whereas $5K will probably buy you a really good one. But have it checked thoroughly by a qualified independent mechanic!

I have a 91 740 SE Turbo bought new in 91. Absolutely indestructible, cheap as hell to own, astoundingly low emissions (EASILY pass CA smog year after year), and vastly better looking than all the SUV/CUV trash on the road. My friend in SF uses one (a wagon of the same vintage) as a daily driver to haul huge loads of lumber he uses in various construction projects.

Another Reader

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #21 on: September 22, 2018, 06:52:14 PM »
You have a lot of debt and now a baby.  You cannot afford a fancy new car.  Your situation is complicated by where you live, where rust is a problem in older cars.  I think an older Toyota Sienna purchased in an area where road salt is not used would meet all of your requirements.  Pay off your student loan and start thinking about your future and your baby's future.

Altons Bobs

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #22 on: September 22, 2018, 09:11:42 PM »
Get a used hatchback with high fuel economy. Don't get a clown SUV like all the "rugged soccer Moms and NASCAR Dads." Nobody needs a truck unless they are using it for contractor work and nobody needs an SUV period.

You will only understand when you get old and have knee problems getting in and out of a sedan.

SoBurntImCharred

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #23 on: September 22, 2018, 10:04:02 PM »
Get a used hatchback with high fuel economy. Don't get a clown SUV like all the "rugged soccer Moms and NASCAR Dads." Nobody needs a truck unless they are using it for contractor work and nobody needs an SUV period.

You will only understand when you get old and have knee problems getting in and out of a sedan.
There are lots of cars that you don't need to slink down into like a sports car. If someone wants an SUV, more power to them, but it's still unnecessary.

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friedmmj

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #24 on: September 23, 2018, 12:59:06 AM »
Get a used hatchback with high fuel economy. Don't get a clown SUV like all the "rugged soccer Moms and NASCAR Dads." Nobody needs a truck unless they are using it for contractor work and nobody needs an SUV period.

You’re my hero. SUVs are a cancer on our society.

Cranky

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #25 on: September 23, 2018, 05:24:46 AM »
I’m old and have bad knees and I can get in and out of a sedan (Subaru Impreza in our case) I lot easier than a truck or SUV, for which I kinda need a step stool.

WhiteTrashCash

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #26 on: September 23, 2018, 07:44:21 AM »
Get a used hatchback with high fuel economy. Don't get a clown SUV like all the "rugged soccer Moms and NASCAR Dads." Nobody needs a truck unless they are using it for contractor work and nobody needs an SUV period.

You will only understand when you get old and have knee problems getting in and out of a sedan.
There are lots of cars that you don't need to slink down into like a sports car. If someone wants an SUV, more power to them, but it's still unnecessary.

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There are lots of hatchbacks that ride high and hence don't need "crouching" to enter or sit within. A bunch of automakers raised their cars to satisfy the people who want to reduce their fuel economy by raising up their cars like SUVs.

lukebuz

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #27 on: September 23, 2018, 05:39:13 PM »
Dodge Grand Caravan with 100,000 miles.  These things are all over the road, super cheap to fix, and will regularly go 250K before they are clapped out.  Could score one for 10K or less.  Ours was 2 years old, 75,000 (!) miles, all options - video screens, leather, heated front and rear seats, dual climate controls, rear backup, stow n go, and on and on.  $14,500. 

BussoV6

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #28 on: September 23, 2018, 09:03:48 PM »
So your tiny car which you somehow managed to juggle the tools, dog, and baby is totaled and you need to upgrade to a monster vehicle to suddenly manage those things?

Audi A3 and a VW Tiguan are pretty much the same size. Based on the same VW group platform and share the same powertrain range. My wife had an A3 and now a Tig as her company car. I can't see any size difference. Many of these small SUVs are merely hatchbacks on stilts to increase market appeal.

That said..... agree that a 5 year old Japanese hatchback is the best financial option. Mazda 3 or similar Honda would be the wise move.

RWD

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #29 on: September 24, 2018, 06:29:44 AM »
Audi A3 and a VW Tiguan are pretty much the same size. Based on the same VW group platform and share the same powertrain range. My wife had an A3 and now a Tig as her company car. I can't see any size difference. Many of these small SUVs are merely hatchbacks on stilts to increase market appeal.

The 2018 Tiguan is 10.5 inches longer than the A3 sedan and 16 inches longer than the hatchback. It is a couple inches wider and of course ~10 inches taller. It is also 500+ lb heavier. It may be similar on the inside and share a platform but it is definitely a much bigger vehicle all around.

rothwem

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #30 on: September 24, 2018, 06:57:19 AM »
The Audi Allroad is so ridiculously unreliable that it forms the basis by which all other unreliable cars are ranked.

https://dougdemuro.kinja.com/german-reliability-the-greatest-myth-ever-sold-to-amer-1572026115

This.  Do not get a first generation Audi Allroad. 

Buy a used Honda Fit and don't think about cars again. 

Jon Bon

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #31 on: September 24, 2018, 07:27:55 AM »
Ok sounds like the OP wants something a little unique and higher end? That is fine you want what you want no judgement there.

But does it have to be German? Like really? I guess if you just want to firehouse cash I could see a German car on a lease or before its warranty runs out, because usually on those a headlight change requires dropping the engine and a oil change is about $500 bucks.

Personally I love the saying.

"The most expensive car you can buy is a cheap German car"

Id check out the Asian manufacturers, they have some pretty nice offerings that might be up your alley.


BussoV6

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #32 on: September 24, 2018, 07:55:59 AM »
Audi A3 and a VW Tiguan are pretty much the same size. Based on the same VW group platform and share the same powertrain range. My wife had an A3 and now a Tig as her company car. I can't see any size difference. Many of these small SUVs are merely hatchbacks on stilts to increase market appeal.

The 2018 Tiguan is 10.5 inches longer than the A3 sedan and 16 inches longer than the hatchback. It is a couple inches wider and of course ~10 inches taller. It is also 500+ lb heavier. It may be similar on the inside and share a platform but it is definitely a much bigger vehicle all around.

Regular Tig is a touch shorter than an A3 (176 inch vs 175). Pretty sure the same width. Obviously height is different. Also, the Tig loses a lot of trunk space due to AWD rear drivetrain. We had both vehicles at the same time for a couple of weeks.

I think you are considering the Tig allspace 7 seater?

Dicey

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #33 on: September 24, 2018, 08:15:52 AM »
Dodge Grand Caravan with 100,000 miles.  These things are all over the road, super cheap to fix, and will regularly go 250K before they are clapped out.  Could score one for 10K or less.  Ours was 2 years old, 75,000 (!) miles, all options - video screens, leather, heated front and rear seats, dual climate controls, rear backup, stow n go, and on and on.  $14,500.
I had two of these as company cars and love, love, loved them. When it was time to turn in the first one at 80k, my sister bought it dirt cheap and put another 100k on it. No leather seats, though, but the fabric seats were super easy to clean. And the magic doors rocked! I miss the Stow'n Go seats, too. When the seats were up, the seat bays made great hidey holes. Great suggestion!

ysette9

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #34 on: September 24, 2018, 09:00:55 AM »
Many VWs are unreliable but Consumer Reports rather liked the newer Golfs (2012 onward, I think). You can look that up at the library in their car buying guide. I love the form factor and versatility of that car. Otherwise like others said, an old small Toyota truck, a Mazda 5, maybe you can find one of those Honda Accord wagons I see occasionally, etc. If you are using it for work then it is a tool to haul you and crap, not a fashion statement or something fun.

Another Reader

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #35 on: September 24, 2018, 09:22:01 AM »
Dodge Grand Caravan with 100,000 miles.  These things are all over the road, super cheap to fix, and will regularly go 250K before they are clapped out.  Could score one for 10K or less.  Ours was 2 years old, 75,000 (!) miles, all options - video screens, leather, heated front and rear seats, dual climate controls, rear backup, stow n go, and on and on.  $14,500.
I had two of these as company cars and love, love, loved them. When it was time to turn in the first one at 80k, my sister bought it dirt cheap and put another 100k on it. No leather seats, though, but the fabric seats were super easy to clean. And the magic doors rocked! I miss the Stow'n Go seats, too. When the seats were up, the seat bays made great hidey holes. Great suggestion!

Sadly these vans went out of production after 2018.  As much as people hate the Chrysler products, these vans were very useful and had long lives, as they were basically commercial vehicles  modified and sold to the car market.  I know a number of animal rescue organizations that have them.  If you get one, make sure both sets of rear seats are stow and go.

RWD

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #36 on: September 24, 2018, 09:37:31 AM »
Audi A3 and a VW Tiguan are pretty much the same size. Based on the same VW group platform and share the same powertrain range. My wife had an A3 and now a Tig as her company car. I can't see any size difference. Many of these small SUVs are merely hatchbacks on stilts to increase market appeal.

The 2018 Tiguan is 10.5 inches longer than the A3 sedan and 16 inches longer than the hatchback. It is a couple inches wider and of course ~10 inches taller. It is also 500+ lb heavier. It may be similar on the inside and share a platform but it is definitely a much bigger vehicle all around.

Regular Tig is a touch shorter than an A3 (176 inch vs 175). Pretty sure the same width. Obviously height is different. Also, the Tig loses a lot of trunk space due to AWD rear drivetrain. We had both vehicles at the same time for a couple of weeks.

I think you are considering the Tig allspace 7 seater?

Ah, I did not realize there were two sizes now. Looks like the smaller one is called the Tiguan Limited here in the US. I figured "Limited" meant special edition not smaller, which is why I didn't look at those dimensions originally. Still 200+ pounds heavier than the A3 though and much less aerodynamic (0.37 vs 0.30 coefficient of drag).

Scortius

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #37 on: September 24, 2018, 11:06:18 AM »
Hi Bear, here are three types of personalities of people who own cars:

1) Someone who feels happy when people look at their car and think "that's a really nice car, they must be doing really well for themselves".

2) Someone who couldn't care less what people think of their car.

3) Someone who feels happy when people look at their car and think "what a boring car, they must not be that well off".

Not that you have to fit a specific category, but one of these is going to lead to a host of poor financial decisions, while two will lead to many beneficial ones.

You've posted questions before about how to increase your income and get further on the right track. Would you like to give yourself a $10,000 raise? There are people here making well over $200k who wouldn't even consider spending over $20k on a car. If you really want to start walking the path, this is where you start.

swampwiz

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #38 on: September 24, 2018, 11:14:10 AM »
Get the oldest certified used VW you can get.  I would not buy a new car these days since the driverless car is coming in the next few years.

swampwiz

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #39 on: September 24, 2018, 11:16:30 AM »
I wouldn't buy a VW or Audi if I were planning to keep the car after the warranty runs out.

Why do you say that?  I've got a 15 year old VW (164K miles) and aside from a few things here & there, especially wear items like axles & rotors, it's been pretty solid.

Dragonswan

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #40 on: September 24, 2018, 12:00:14 PM »
With all those miles you drive perhaps a used hybrid hatchback like a used Prius?

letired

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #41 on: September 24, 2018, 12:12:44 PM »
With all those miles you drive perhaps a used hybrid hatchback like a used Prius?
+1. I used a Prius V plus roof box for field work, and could fit a tremendous quantity of workers, supplies, and equipment in/on it, and it got great mileage. It had the same clearance and more cargo capacity (not including the roof box) as most of the SUVs that were our alternate options.

mm1970

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #42 on: September 24, 2018, 01:02:56 PM »
Get a used hatchback with high fuel economy. Don't get a clown SUV like all the "rugged soccer Moms and NASCAR Dads." Nobody needs a truck unless they are using it for contractor work and nobody needs an SUV period.

You will only understand when you get old and have knee problems getting in and out of a sedan.
There are lots of cars that you don't need to slink down into like a sports car. If someone wants an SUV, more power to them, but it's still unnecessary.

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Any examples?  We drive small cars (Matrix and Civic), which are fine - but I've noticed when our 70+ year old parents visit - it can actually be quite hard for them to get in and out, esp my stepdad with his knee surgery.  HE is now driving a Ford Escape - which I've noticed is much easier for him to get in and out of than any other car he's owned (it's his first ever "SUV", though he also owns a pickup for hauling, snowplowing, etc.)

Cranky

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #43 on: September 24, 2018, 03:49:34 PM »
Is he very tall? I have no trouble getting in and out of our Subaru, and my knees are pretty awful. I’m r ally daunted when I have to climb into a full sized van or a truck.

Bearblastbeats

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #44 on: September 24, 2018, 05:07:13 PM »
A friend has a 2009 a4 wagon he can sell me for 6400$. Has 130k miles on it and could get a 5 year warranty for $1500.

I can pay that in cash.

SoBurntImCharred

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #45 on: September 24, 2018, 05:11:46 PM »
Get a used hatchback with high fuel economy. Don't get a clown SUV like all the "rugged soccer Moms and NASCAR Dads." Nobody needs a truck unless they are using it for contractor work and nobody needs an SUV period.

You will only understand when you get old and have knee problems getting in and out of a sedan.
There are lots of cars that you don't need to slink down into like a sports car. If someone wants an SUV, more power to them, but it's still unnecessary.

Sent from my Nexus 6 using Tapatalk
Any examples?  We drive small cars (Matrix and Civic), which are fine - but I've noticed when our 70+ year old parents visit - it can actually be quite hard for them to get in and out, esp my stepdad with his knee surgery.  HE is now driving a Ford Escape - which I've noticed is much easier for him to get in and out of than any other car he's owned (it's his first ever "SUV", though he also owns a pickup for hauling, snowplowing, etc.)
Any of the Japanese cars that look like toasters (xB, Cube, Element) are very easy to get into because they have an upright seating position with lots of head room, similar to an SUV.

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Another Reader

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #46 on: September 24, 2018, 05:15:35 PM »
Your "friend" is not doing you any favors.  Get a car that suits your needs and is likely to have few if any issues at the lowest cost.

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #47 on: September 24, 2018, 05:26:11 PM »
A friend has a 2009 a4 wagon he can sell me for 6400$. Has 130k miles on it and could get a 5 year warranty for $1500.

I can pay that in cash.
Clearly you want to buy the A4. From a purely financial perspective you don't seem to be getting a lot of warm fuzzies here about that decision for all of the reasons listed above. Having cash on hand to purchase something is not the same as being able to afford something, and it does not automatically qualify it as being the best decision. For example, in addition to the initial out-of pocket cost, the A4 is going to cost you almost twice as much to repair on an annual basis than the matrix that has been recommended above:
https://repairpal.com/cars/compare/audi-a4-vs-toyota-matrix

It may be that having an A4 is what will actually give you that life fulfillment that you've always needed and make you truly happy. Even if that is true, you should still move forward with a full, and quantitative, understanding of the true cost of your decision. The A4 only makes sense over other options on an emotional level. That is fine, but be aware of how you are making that decision.

Bearblastbeats

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #48 on: September 24, 2018, 05:52:42 PM »
A friend has a 2009 a4 wagon he can sell me for 6400$. Has 130k miles on it and could get a 5 year warranty for $1500.

I can pay that in cash.
Clearly you want to buy the A4. From a purely financial perspective you don't seem to be getting a lot of warm fuzzies here about that decision for all of the reasons listed above. Having cash on hand to purchase something is not the same as being able to afford something, and it does not automatically qualify it as being the best decision. For example, in addition to the initial out-of pocket cost, the A4 is going to cost you almost twice as much to repair on an annual basis than the matrix that has been recommended above:
https://repairpal.com/cars/compare/audi-a4-vs-toyota-matrix

It may be that having an A4 is what will actually give you that life fulfillment that you've always needed and make you truly happy. Even if that is true, you should still move forward with a full, and quantitative, understanding of the true cost of your decision. The A4 only makes sense over other options on an emotional level. That is fine, but be aware of how you are making that decision.

It's just an option. I had a 2012 a3 wagon. I'm familiar with the costs of maintenance and repairs, they were comparable to my Subaru impreza.

I have my rental for 30 days to find the best deal out there. Also am looking at a GMC terrain and ford escape for under 10k.

the_fixer

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Re: Totalled my car, now what?
« Reply #49 on: September 24, 2018, 09:20:06 PM »
I know many friends and relatives that have owned Audi's and none of them would ever do it again they are junk.

They were junk back in the day when a family friend had a dealship selling the Fox and Quattro and still are.

I would give you a pass if it were the first gen  diesel Jetta or equivalent as they run for a long time despite still having the standard quality issues that Volkswagen/ Audi are haunted by but they get a pass due to resale value and the motor that lasts forever.

This is coming from someone that is a car guy, I absolutely love the R8 and I have been tempted many times to buy a Audi or VW but then I realize I do not want to deal with a POS.

If you were financially set and this was just a toy that would be one thing but you are not at that point yet so do not pretend, suck it up and drive a real car for a while and then you can truly afford to have a unreliable toy in the future if you so choose.



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