How to decide between a new- and a used car
There’s some sensory and subconscious satisfaction in buying a new car, knowing that you’re the first person with which it will start its operating life, along with enjoying that new-car smell and getting the benefit of a fresh warranty. But choosing a used car will make your wallet a little happier, or could even get you something nicer for the same outlay.
New-car prices have shot through the roof, and supply constraints may even mean that you could have to wait months for your new car to arrive. These are all compelling reasons to choose a used car instead of a new one: At least you’ll be able to take immediate delivery, and the chances are that you’ll pay less for the privilege as well. You will likely even end up with a nicer spec level than you'd get in a new car fo the same value.
Related: New vs used cars – which one should you buy?
Choose your style, if that’s important
But there are some downsides to buying a used car as well. You won’t get the full benefit of a new car’s warranty and service plan, and you won’t be able to order it exactly the way you want it, so you’ll have to accept the first owner’s colour, trim and option choices.
If you see your car just as a tool to get from A to B, those downsides are reduced to insignificance. But, if you see your car as an extension of your personality, you’d better hope that you can find a used car that projects your desired image. For more about the pros and cons relating to used- and new cars, check out this detailed explanation by Chad Lückhoff.
The daily driver
If you work away from home and have a long commute every day, you will be better-off buying a used car. There are numerous reasons for this, but it all comes down to Rands and sense.
Putting big mileages on a new car quickly reduces its value, so it’s better to start off with a used car (that has already lost some of its value). Besides, a small parking lot ding on a used car probably won’t hurt your soul as much as the same damage on a new car would.
