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which car to buy?

SolaSaint

Well-Known Member
With gas prices going through the roof, we are considering buying a car with better fuel economy. Our current car is old with lots of miles and only gets 25 MPG hwy. So it's time to trade.

I'm looking at either a Honda Civic which is supposed to get 37 MPG. or a Ford Focus, I think it is supposed to get 33. What do you all suggest? I would consider a hybrid but they are cost prohibting IMO.
 

mont974x4

New Member
I get about 8 mpg in town. Not sure about hwy. But....its paid off.


Most people would be happy to get over 20. Why risk more debt to save a few sheckles on fuel?
 

SaggyWoman

Active Member
Personally, I advocate the Civic, due to how long the Hondas last. I have had some long lasting hondas in my life, plus they are good on mileage.
 

annsni

Well-Known Member
Site Supporter
Personally, I advocate the Civic, due to how long the Hondas last. I have had some long lasting hondas in my life, plus they are good on mileage.

I fully agree with you. We have two Hondas and have owned 3 others. They are fantastic!
 

FriendofSpurgeon

Well-Known Member
Site Supporter
With gas prices going through the roof, we are considering buying a car with better fuel economy. Our current car is old with lots of miles and only gets 25 MPG hwy. So it's time to trade.

I'm looking at either a Honda Civic which is supposed to get 37 MPG. or a Ford Focus, I think it is supposed to get 33. What do you all suggest? I would consider a hybrid but they are cost prohibting IMO.

Assuming that you drive 10,000 miles a year and gas costing $3.50/gallon, you will save $455 per year -- assuming your MPG estimates are correct. Given that fact, not sure if it makes financial sense.

However, if you are going to buy a new car, assuming prices are the same, I agree that the Civic is probably a superior buy. You may also want to look at others in the same category --- Toyota Corolla and the VW Jetta come to mind.
 

SaggyWoman

Active Member
However, if you are going to buy a new car, assuming prices are the same, I agree that the Civic is probably a superior buy. You may also want to look at others in the same category --- Toyota Corolla and the VW Jetta come to mind.

Price wise, there is no comparison to the cost. Civic overwhelms a Ford.

But I would still buy due to longevity.

Wouldn't mind a corolla either.
 

Salty

20,000 Posts Club
Administrator
I would suggest a Ford - but I am a bit prejudiced as I sell Fords.

As far as a hybrid - I've been told the 2012 Escapes hybrids aren't that great, However the 2012 Fusions are good. But it depends on your driving habits. The hybrid currently only works at speeds 40 and under. The 2013's will up that speed a bit. Yes, the hybrid is more expensive but it could be cost effective based on your driving. If all you do is Interstate - no need for it. If you are a driving instructor - it would be a great vehicle.

SS- in your OP, you don't state any details other than MPG desire. It is hard to determine the best vehicle for you without additional information. I would recommend you stop at a dealership and get some info. Yes, some will induce you to buy immediately, but play offense. Just tell them you are in the planning stage and if they push too much, just tell them too much pushing will push them off your potently dealerships. Get as much info as possible.
And ask some pastors for men they may know who are committed Christians and car salesman.

I have had some customers who told me they are Christians - and not all of them have bought form me.

If you have any specific questions - just email me.

Salty
Sold my lucky car today - My 13th sale of my career!
 

SolaSaint

Well-Known Member
Thanks everyone, I too am partial to Honda's since I was a previous Accord owner. My wife doesn't like the looks of the civic and I admit it is kinda plain looking. I'm for the MPG and a low sticker price.
 

annsni

Well-Known Member
Site Supporter
Thanks everyone, I too am partial to Honda's since I was a previous Accord owner. My wife doesn't like the looks of the civic and I admit it is kinda plain looking. I'm for the MPG and a low sticker price.

My daughter has a 2008 and that thing is fun to drive!
 

InTheLight

Well-Known Member
Site Supporter
With gas prices going through the roof, we are considering buying a car with better fuel economy. Our current car is old with lots of miles and only gets 25 MPG hwy. So it's time to trade.

I'm looking at either a Honda Civic which is supposed to get 37 MPG. or a Ford Focus, I think it is supposed to get 33. What do you all suggest? I would consider a hybrid but they are cost prohibting IMO.

Ford is making really great cars nowadays. They didn't take bailout money. Buy American.

Every Honda I've ever been in has had lots of tire and road noise. I don't think I could stand it after a couple of days.

Car and Driver likes the Focus. Faster, better interior, more room, and only 1 mpg less.

http://www.caranddriver.com/comparisons/2012-ford-focus-se-vs-2012-honda-civic-ex-comparison-test

If you drive 12,000 miles a year the difference between 32 mpg and 33 mpg is 12 gallons of gas or less than $50 a year. I'd gladly pay less than a $1 a week to drive a car with a bit more zip and more room.

You've got to go and test drive them both. Be sure to tell each dealer you're looking at their competitor. It's a good way to walk out of the dealership--"I'm not making a decision on the Focus today, I'm heading over to the Honda dealership to look at the Civic." This way you can avoid an emotional decision. Always walk away the first time (sorry Salty!)
 
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Salty

20,000 Posts Club
Administrator
and don't forget Leasing as an option. There are many advantages. I will agree there might be some disadvantages, but take a good look at it.

This is if you drive less than 20,000 miles a year - and based on the programs of the dealer.
 

InTheLight

Well-Known Member
Site Supporter
and don't forget Leasing as an option. There are many advantages. I will agree there might be some disadvantages, but take a good look at it.

This is if you drive less than 20,000 miles a year - and based on the programs of the dealer.

I agree. I was all set to buy my wife a three year old Toyota Sienna SE minivan but opted for leasing a brand new Chrysler Town & Country Touring. Yes, I won't own the vehicle after 36 months are up, but the net monthly cost was ridiculously cheaper than the Toyota, even if I was planning on owning the Sienna for six years and the lease-end buyout on the Chrysler is attractive.
 

annsni

Well-Known Member
Site Supporter
I agree. I was all set to buy my wife a three year old Toyota Sienna SE minivan but opted for leasing a brand new Chrysler Town & Country Touring. Yes, I won't own the vehicle after 36 months are up, but the net monthly cost was ridiculously cheaper than the Toyota, even if I was planning on owning the Sienna for six years and the lease-end buyout on the Chrysler is attractive.

That's what we did with my last Dodge Grand Caravan. We leased then purchased - and saved ourselves a few thousand dollars because of the lease loyalty bonus of $6,000 that year!
 
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