OT: Car Options

[MattsPats]

I need to get another car to replace one that is coming off a lease, but am trying to keep the monthly nut between $250 and $300. So far, these are my two best options:

• 2007 Camry with 10,000 miles at $20,000
• 2006 Camry with 30,000 miles at $18,000

Regardless of the rate the monthly difference between the two is about $30, which doesn't seem like a lot but would basically equate to one car payment in a year. However, I will be driving this car daily approx. 160 miles (800 in a week for roughly 40,000 miles a year - give or take a few thousand). I will also be driving back and forth to Bakersfield from where I live in Santa Clarita, CA over the "Grapevine," a mountainous and often weather averse portion of the 5 Freeway that reaches 4400 feet at its apex. I am thinking that the 2007 makes the most sense given my main needs, though the 2006 actually has more options (leather seats, wood paneling, etc.). What say the Planet?

 

[Claremonster]

Go with newer and less miles since it isn't much difference in payments.

 

[scaulen]

Go with newer and less miles since it isn't much difference in payments.

I concur, should still be carrying the manufacturers warranty on it also. Better trade in value in the long run since it will be newer. But do a carfax on the one you decide to buy just in case.

 

[Spentcartridge]

I concur, should still be carrying the manufacturers warranty on it also. Better trade in value in the long run since it will be newer. But do a carfax on the one you decide to buy just in case.

You really should pay for the carfax report. You don't need a flood vehicle.

 

[O_P_T]

I don't know if wood paneling is all that big a deal, but I most certainly would consider the differences in the options and features of the two cars.

You're going to be spending a reasonable amount of time in the car and the difference in features and comfort (assuming there are any significant ones) would make more of a difference to me than the mileage and price that's listed.

 

[Spentcartridge]

Probably could get a fully loaded Subaru Impreza for around 20,000 brand new, with AWD. Just another option.

 

[scaulen]

Probably could get a fully loaded Subaru Impreza for around 20,000 brand new, with AWD. Just another option.

Might get better financing, and incentives also. Good call.

 

[Nomadic Logic]

Legacy GT FTW.

 

[MattsPats]

Might get better financing, and incentives also. Good call.

I am not yet sure what the rate would be, but with the 2007 it could be as low as 3.9% because I think they still consider it "new." Also, since I am returning a leased car from Toyota Financial and because they lurve me they prequaled me for a 100% financing option --which right now is important because I literally have about $500 in cash to my name right now (I will be getting paid in a couple weeks, but want to leverage the end of the month timing with the fact that I want them to cover my last two remaining lease payments). By the way, I just realized the older car is a 2005, not a 2006.

 

[scaulen]

I am not yet sure what the rate would be, but with the 2007 it could be as low as 3.9% because I think they still consider it "new." Also, since I am returning a leased car from Toyota Financial and because they lurve me they prequaled me for a 100% financing option --which right now is important because I literally have about $500 in cash to my name right now (I will be getting paid in a couple weeks, but want to leverage the end of the month timing with the fact that I want them to cover my last two remaining lease payments). By the way, I just realized the older car is a 2005, not a 2006.

That seals the deal then.