On: If you want to be rich, first stop being so frightened (2006)

[msluyter]

Indeed. Simple formula for minimizing car expenses: Buy a used (3-5 yr old) Honda or Toyota sedan. Drive it until total annual cost of repairs exceeds the cost of another used Honda/Toyota, and/or it falls apart. Repeat.

[yan → msluyter]

That's the most economical way to own a car, sure, but there is opportunity cost to driving something you don't enjoy when you're young enough to enjoy it. If you don't care about cars or driving, this is the best option, but if you do, it might not hurt to spend a few extra dollars on something you'd actually enjoy.

[garethm → yan]

I know someone who drives a Ferrari and really enjoys it - and he's nearly 50. You've got to be pretty old before you're too old to enjoy driving a nice car.

[ibsulon → yan]

That's raising my level of ramen profitibility, no thank you.

[jpwagner → ibsulon]

Not agreeing or disagreeing with OP, but ramen profitibility sucks if your life sucks...

[nazgulnarsil → yan]

I have a $2k motorcycle for fun, the equivalent car would cost $50k (performance wise). That way I don't think about my econobox commuter car.

[imajes → msluyter]

Until the crucial meeting with your first customer/investor/partner happens and you're stuck on the side of the road waiting for AAA.

Seriously, it's not always just about spending the least.

[lallysingh → msluyter]

Drive it until the total annual cost of [repairs, inconvenience of breakdown, time lost due to failed vehicle] exceeds the cost of another used Honda/Toyota.

As someone who remembers their first high-school vehicle too well, there's value in a level of reliability.

[ido → msluyter]

Or, if applicable, take the subway/tram/train/bus/bike.