New or Used Car? Here’s a Guide

Did you know that a car is probably the second most expensive purchase that you are likely to acquire as a consumer? If you didn’t know, worry not: I also learnt it when it was time to purchase my own car. Honestly, us, women assume that we are perfect at choosing clothes, scents and well, husbands, but I can tell you that nothing works the brain like buying the first car. Let me tell you for free that buying your first car will be so stressing that you risk making impulse decisions. However, to save you all that trouble, here is a post I made to save my fellow women by providing a few tips they must consider before settling on buying a new or used vehicle.

Here is a comparison between old and new cars

Advantages of a new car

  • It gives you peace of mind as most come with three-year warranties.
  • They are cheaper to run because everything is new.
  • Buying new lets you choose the specifications you want.
  • New cars are more energy-efficient and greener.

Disadvantages

  • They can be very costly.
  • Their value depreciates drastically especially in the first year.

Personally, and to keep it brief, I think if you have the cash to purchase a new car, just do it. I find the initial (buying) cost as the biggest challenge in acquiring a new ride. There are numerous new car dealers with online showrooms where you can visit and choose your preferred ride. One of the best in the UK are Motor Parks. They deal in both new and used cars. Lest I forget, I should also let you know that they just released an assortment of 65 reg plate new vehicles. Visit their page here to learn more.

Advantages of a used car

Image courtesy of M 93 on Flickr

  • A used car can have little to no depreciation.
  • They are definitely cheaper to acquire and maintain.

Disadvantages

  • Most might guzzle more fuel than new cars.
  • It is very hard finding one in your preferences.
  • Some might be costlier to maintain due to frequent repairs.

I did not imply that used cars are bad at all: rather, I just stated my preferences. However, as an emerging woman, you can still find a second-hand car that is as good as new. Just take advantage of the depreciation factor and bargain for that car you want so much. What I would caution you against is purchasing an old car. Buy a used car, not an old one! Luckily for you, Motor Parks have a web section where they showcase used cars that are in perfect condition. Visit their “Used Cars” section for more details. Once you get your car, the next thing to think about something like  Youi, something I’ll be discussing in a future post!

See you on the roads!

Image courtesy of MotorParks

Ms. Career Girl

Ms. Career Girl was started in 2008 to help ambitious young professional women figure out who they are, what they want and how to get it.