| [ car ] in KIDS 글 쓴 이(By): hongsang (NSX) 날 짜 (Date): 1995년02월12일(일) 19시57분07초 KST 제 목(Title): 4-door sedan III I hope this posting is not too late. If someone is considerin to own a car for a few yrs, I recomend uesed cars and leasing. Since new cars depreciate much much faster for the first 3 or 4 yrs, it would be a waste of money if one owns a car for a short period of time. Thus, a good used car would be a much wiser choice. Now, the problem is that it's not easy to find a used car in a good consition. A good-looking used car might be a lemon to expert's eyes. Unless you are really familiar with cars and know nuts and bolts about cars, or you know someone with experties, you may not want to buy a used car. Do not believe the dealer's words and check DMV record for any accidents. But, then, if the accident was not reported because it was minor one, there's no way to find out the real history of the car. :( Now, there is "leasing". It's sort of long-term renting. Its advantages are: 1)low monthly payment: you can afford a car that you couldn't afford with normal payment. For example, you may drive out Lexus ES300 with leasing while you cant afford more than a Camry LE V6 (or something like that). This is the best part. 2)no need to worry to sell it later: you just give the key to the dealer at the end of the contract term and walk away. Disadvantages are; 1)there is a certain limit on the annual mileage. It's usually 15000 mi, but differs from one leasing to another. if the limit is exceeded, you are charged quite a steep penalty ( 10 cents per mile in some cases). 2)you are required to ktake a real good care of the car: if you buy a car, it's good to take care of your car. But, it is NOT required. You may or may not service the car. It's up to you. But, not in leasing. 3)full-coveryage insurance is mandatory: again, you may opt for liability only if you baught the car. But, if leasing, you have to have a full-coverage insurance policy since the ownership belongs to the dealer (or the financing company, not sure about the detail). 4)your garage is going to be empty at the end of the term: if buying, the car is totally yours after, say 4 -5 yrs. When leasing ends, the car is out of your hands. 5)you cannot modify your car extensively: since the car is not really yours in leasing, you cannot do anything major to your car (for example, modify engine, bodywork and so on). There's more, but I can't remember all now. Especially in leasing, you have to pay real attention to fine prints in contract since there are the most important terms. The reason taht car companies promote leasing is that they need quality used cars to sell to other customers. So, if you consider leasing, keep your eyes wide open and read carefully all the little prints. And, question everything suspicious. (my arms really hurt!) |