Buying a car can be stressful for many people because there are different factors to consider. Some people assume buying a new car is the best option, while others prefer to purchase a used car. While each person might be correct according to their needs, determining the advantages of new vs. used is relatively easy and can assist in decision-making.
Before reviewing the advantages of each type of car, it is essential to understand how “new” and “used” are defined.
Used Car and New Car Defined
Many people have doubts about the distinction between new and used, but a car is no longer considered new if it:
- Has had its structure affected by accidents
- Has changed its engine or fuel type
- Has downgraded or included accessories other than the original ones
For example, consider two different cars. One car has a maximum of 3 years of use, only one owner, bodywork in good condition, and none of its mechanical parts are defective. A second car has signs of rust on the bodywork and defects in the engine, clutch, gearbox, or suspension. The changes to the second car caused its status to change from new to used, while the first car is still considered new.
Comparing Advantages
Consider the following benefits of a used and new car before finalizing the purchase. Make sure they meet all your requirements and budget.
New Cars
- Financing options – There will be fewer limitations on loan acquisition. The majority of owners and manufacturers offer specific incentives like cashback and low Annual Percentage Rates (APRs).
- Manufacturer deals – Car dealerships often lower the price to move older models off the lot. There may be a good deal available for a new car.
- Latest technology – Whenever people go to buy a new car, they look for the latest features or a car with modern technology. However, these features will increase the cost of the car, so it is important to compare models with basic and premium packages.
Used Cars
- Lower registration prices – This registration fee depends upon your current location. The expense of registering a new car is higher than the registration cost of used cars.
- Small upfront price – Once you get a new car from its showroom, its value depreciates. A used car in prime condition may be more cost-efficient than a new model car. This is often the case for a used luxury car.
- Reliability – Significant car maintenance and repairs are not needed until you reach at least 100,000 miles. Typically, a new car warranty does not cover any repairs after the first 36,000 miles.
While there are advantages to both new and used cars, also consider:
Price
This is the main advantage of buying used cars. Vehicles have a high depreciation rate, so the value of a zero-mile car drops substantially by at least 10%.
Therefore, the amount used to purchase a new car could also be used to buy a used model with more mileage but better features.
Safety
The amount of used car insurance is less than the amount charged in the case of a new car. Since it is charged annually, this difference can be quite significant over time.
Documentation
Buying a used or new car is not just about the vehicle’s value and the insurance. The cost to register a new car is greater than the amount needed for a used one. Registration documents usually exceed $1,000, while the used transfer fee costs less than half that amount.
Taxes
The Tax on Property of Motor Vehicles (IPVA) is paid annually, but the rates used to calculate this tax are different.
In this case, the IPVA is:
- 3% for flex-fuel vehicles
- 4% of the value of the vehicle with one type of fuel
As it focuses on the value of the good, the used car naturally has a lower value. In that case, the tax rate will also be lower than that charged for a new car.
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