Which Car Should I Buy Tool
Our Approach
This tool uses a rule-based scoring system to match your needs with appropriate car types. It doesn't use AI or machine learning – just straightforward logic based on practical considerations.
Scoring Methodology
Each car type receives a score based on five key factors:
1 Budget Compatibility
We match car types to typical price ranges based on current market data. For example:
- Under $15k: Compact sedans score highest
- $35k-$50k: Compact/mid-size SUVs, hybrids, and EVs score highest
- Over $50k: Luxury vehicles, mid-size SUVs, and EVs score highest
2 Family Size Requirements
Vehicle capacity directly impacts recommendations:
- 1-2 passengers: Compact/mid-size sedans prioritized
- 3-4 passengers: Mid-size sedans and compact SUVs prioritized
- 5+ passengers: Mid-size SUVs receive highest scores
3 Primary Usage Pattern
Different vehicles excel at different tasks:
- Daily commute: Fuel-efficient sedans, hybrids, and EVs
- Family use: SUVs and crossovers with space and safety
- Adventure: SUVs and trucks with capability
- Work/business: Trucks and larger SUVs
4 Fuel Preference
If you specify a fuel type preference, vehicles matching that preference score higher:
- Gasoline: Traditional gas vehicles prioritized
- Hybrid: Hybrid vehicles score highest
- Electric: EVs score highest
- No preference: All types evaluated equally
5 Driving Environment
Where you drive affects what's practical:
- City: Smaller, more maneuverable vehicles
- Highway: Comfortable cruisers with good MPG
- Mixed: Well-rounded vehicles
- Off-road: SUVs and trucks with capability
Final Recommendations
We total the scores and recommend the top 3 car types. Each recommendation includes:
- Typical price range (based on current market averages)
- Specific pros and cons
- Best use cases
Car Ownership Cost Calculator
Components Calculated
Our calculator includes five major cost categories:
1 Vehicle Purchase Cost
We calculate your loan using the standard amortization formula:
Where:
- P = Loan amount (purchase price minus down payment)
- r = Monthly interest rate (annual rate / 12)
- n = Number of monthly payments (years × 12)
2 Fuel Costs
Calculated using your inputs:
- Annual gallons needed = Annual mileage / MPG
- Annual fuel cost = Annual gallons × Gas price per gallon
- Total fuel cost = Annual cost × Loan term years
3 Insurance
We use your estimated annual insurance cost multiplied by the loan term. Insurance costs vary widely based on:
- Your age and driving record
- Location
- Vehicle type and value
- Coverage level
We recommend getting actual quotes before finalizing your budget.
4 Maintenance & Repairs
Estimated using industry averages that increase over time:
- Years 1-2: $500 per year (basic maintenance)
- Years 3-4: $1,000 per year (increased wear items)
- Years 5+: $1,500 per year (major services and repairs)
These are conservative estimates for a typical vehicle. Luxury brands and performance vehicles typically cost more.
5 Registration & Fees
Estimated at $200 per year, covering:
- License plate registration
- State/local fees
- Emissions testing where required
Actual costs vary by state. Some states charge more for newer or more expensive vehicles.
What's Not Included
Our calculator doesn't include:
- Depreciation: While significant, it's not a cash expense unless you sell
- Parking costs: Varies too much by location
- Tolls: Highly dependent on your specific routes
- Accessories and modifications: Optional expenses
- Taxes: Sales tax varies by state and locality
Data Sources
Our information comes from:
We use publicly available information and industry research as reference points, not real-time pricing feeds.
Limitations & Disclaimers
Our tools provide estimates and guidance, not guarantees. Actual costs vary based on:
Always do additional research and get actual quotes before making financial decisions.