The monthly car payment is not the only expense you must consider when
purchasing a vehicle. Routine maintenance, insurance, gas, and registration
fees, are all expenditures that vary depending upon the type of vehicle you
prefer. For instance, a SUV compared to a compact car will cost you more out of
pocket expense in gas due to the difference in fuel economy. Also, a foreign
vehicle compared to a similar domestic car, may cost you more to maintain due to
the higher prices for foreign- made parts. Finally, insurance charges can make a
car unaffordable even if you can make the monthly payment due to the higher
premiums charged to younger drivers.
It is important to ask yourself what will be the primary use of the vehicle.
- How many passengers will frequently ride with you?
- Will the vehicle be used for long distance driving or
short distance trips around the city?
Small Cars
Advantages
Small cars are generally less expensive than their larger counterparts. Most
auto companies target small cars at the youth market and often offer special
financing or incentives for first-time buyers. Small cars with their 4 cylinder
engines give drivers good gas economy and reasonable handling. Also, insurance
cost are fairly reasonable on small models.
Disadvantages
Because they run on smaller engines, you may be unhappy with their
lack of power. Also, passenger space is limited in most smaller cars, which can
make long distance drives uncomfortable for passengers. Lastly, most small car
passengers are at a disadvantage in an accident due to their lightweight
construction.
Large Cars
Advantages
Larger cars have a reputation for offering a nice smooth ride.
Their size makes them more comfortable for road trips due to their roominess.
Also, most full- size cars are equipped with larger engines that offer more
power to drivers. Moreover, due to their size and weight, large cars may fare
better in accidents and collisions.
Disadvantages
Because they have bigger engines compared to other models, large
cars also have the reputation of being "gas guzzlers." Additionally, with a
large car you may have to sacrifice performance and handling for their
comfortable ride. Finally, the bigger the car the bigger the price tag usually
will be.
Mid-Size Cars
Mid- size cars share the features and benefits of both worlds.
They offer more space compared to a small car and have bigger engines and
achieve better gas mileage than larger automobiles. Generally, mid- size cars
are a good choice because they can adapt to people's changing lifestyles, such
as, deciding to start a family.
Sport Cars
Advantages
Sport cars are simply fun to drive. They offer the power
and the handling that true car enthusiast can appreciate. The sport car is a
symbol of status, and can make you look cool in the eyes of your peers.
Disadvantages
Insurance companies and police can be very hard on young sport
car drivers. Also, your safety in a crash may be lessen due to their low two-
door construction. In addition, sport cars do not generally handle very well in
hazardous conditions compared to other vehicles.
SUVs
Advantages
Like large cars, full-size SUVs or sport utility vehicles
offer plenty of space for their passengers. Their rugged truck features allow
drivers to go off-road or navigate in hazardous conditions that a car would not
be able to handle. Also, SUVs are very popular and like sport cars can appeal to
those wanting social status . Because of their size bigger SUVs are relatively
safe in accidents.
Disadvantages
Due to their versatility, SUVs can be expensive. Also,
SUVs offer plenty of power, but also drink plenty of gas. Therefore, if you are
not going to take advantage of a SUV' s off-road capabilities you may want to
consider small size SUVs or opt for a 4x2 package to lower your cost.
Pick Up Trucks
Advantages
The image of pick up trucks has certainly changed over the years.
Trucks these days are very stylish and offer versatility. Pick up trucks now
come in all different sizes to fit your needs.
Disadvantages
Pick up trucks aren't known for a luxury ride; therefore, you may
be more comfortable in another vehicle. Also, you lose the covered secure
storage space a trunk provides unless you purchase a tonneau cover.
 
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