I have always wondered what was the best idea when buying a car - new or used. For example, let's say that you have $85k to spend. You can buy a lot of really nice new cars - (Top of the line Mercedes, BMW, etc) or - you can find a higher end car that is used. (Maybe a more expensive model that is 1-3 years old, etc)

So my question is - would you prefer to have a brand new car, or one that is a few years old but more car value-wise for the money? Don't forget new cars often depreciate very quickly too, especially more expensive cars.

 

I love the smell of a new car so I go new (and try not to lose to much sleep over the depreciation hit).

js

 

i always like to buy used, def take into the depreciation account. As long as the car is reliable, id buy it 2-3 yrs used, with at least a year of the factory warranty just in case.

 

Used for sure!!! I don't think its smart to buy a new car nowdays. There are plenty RELIABLE used cars out there, even in the luxury/sport segment.

 

A top used car.

 

a used car for sure

 

Always go with a used car that was well cared for and clean. On the types of cars most people on this board purchase, the initial depreciation hit taken by the original owner could be tens of thousands of dollars.

 

Always brand new. But we lsot in the last 2 years a big bunch money.

 

used. I have bought several new Porsches and MB's, etc this last year and have had many issues with them right off the lot. So the theory of buying new to avoid hassles or the other guys problems goes right out the door. That and figure a new AMG MB loses about 40% of its value in the first year is more of reason than any to buy it used. Just look for a well cared for and well documented maintenance car used.

 

I do both but certainly get more bang for the buck with used. If I plan to keep the car to drive and collect, new. If I plan to drive and sell in 2-3, used.

 

Used, mainly because I am young and dont have much money.. I see myself continuing to buy used though.

95k for a new e63, or 75 for a slightly used one? hmmm...

 

Depends on what price point you're talking. Under $40k (original MSRP) I'd just assume buy new, and the depriciation, if you buy the right car, isn't really all that bad. It's worth it to me to not have to worry about what someone else has done, get all the warranty, etc. However, when you start getting a little higher end it gets difficult. For example, you could either have a brand new Cayman, or a slightly used Carrera for the same price. When you start talking hyper car/super car, used is really attractive. However, I still can't knock people who new if you can afford it.

One thing that cracks me up is when people buy cars that carried a $150,000+ MSRP that drop to like $40 or less. Sure you can afford it, but even though the MSRP is 1/4th of what it was, parts and repair bills are not.

 

used... like almost everyone has previously stated; the first depreciation hit can save you a ton of money buying used.