Car Cost Comparison Calculator
Compare the true total cost of ownership for two vehicles.
Car A
Car B
Monthly Cost Breakdown
| Cost Category | Car A | Car B | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loan Payment | 592,62 $ | 439,33 $ | 153,29 $ |
| Fuel Cost | 140,00 $ | 116,67 $ | 23,33 $ |
| Insurance | 150,00 $ | 120,00 $ | 30,00 $ |
| Maintenance | 100,00 $ | 80,00 $ | 20,00 $ |
| Depreciation | 437,50 $ | 350,00 $ | 87,50 $ |
Car Cost Comparison: Complete Guide
True Cost of Car Ownership
The purchase price is only part of the story. Total cost includes financing, fuel, insurance, maintenance, registration, and depreciation.
New vs Used
New cars lose 20% value in the first year. A 3-year-old used car has absorbed the steepest depreciation.
Fuel Efficiency
At 12,000 miles/year, the difference between 20 MPG and 35 MPG is about $900 annually.
Practical Example
$35K New vs $28K Used
Car A (New): Monthly ~$1,345, 5yr total ~$80,700.
Car B (Used): Monthly ~$1,075, 5yr total ~$64,500.
Savings with used: $16,200 over 5 years.
Häufig gestellte Fragen
What costs beyond sticker price?
Include loan interest, insurance, fuel, maintenance, repairs, registration, taxes, and depreciation.
New or used?
Used cars (3-5 years old) typically offer better value. The first owner absorbed the steepest depreciation.
How much does fuel efficiency matter?
A 10 MPG difference at 12K miles/year saves about $600-900 annually.
What about electric vehicles?
EVs have higher upfront costs but lower fuel and maintenance. Electricity costs roughly $0.04/mile vs $0.12/mile for gas.
How accurate is depreciation?
15%/year is average. Luxury cars depreciate faster (20%+), reliable brands slower (10-12%).
Estimates based on average costs. Actual costs vary.
📚 References
- Edmunds - True Cost to Own (edmunds.com)
- Kelly Blue Book - Car Cost Comparison (kbb.com)