Overhaulin'

What do you think about buying a brand new car?

I have a 2000 Acura Integra that is in pretty good condition, low miles, etc... My parents bought it for me for graduation, so it is already paid for, but I would really like a brand new car. Do you think it is worth it to make a payment every month, along with rent? I want an Altima coupe. Also, how much would be a good down payment if I do decide to get the Altima? Any other tips on buying a new car?

Public Comments

1. you have a car with no payments now? and you want a new one then get a new one. Or save up the payments you would be making and then get a new car after you saved a bit
2. Stick with the car you have. It's in good shape and low miles and it's paid for!!! What more could you ask for? Buying a brand new car these days is not worth it unless you're rich. The value goes down thousands as soon as you drive it off the lot. I wish I new you so I could convince you to stick with what you've got. The car payment and insurance will be higher and you already have rent so why not save the money, keep your car and have that extra 2-300.00 dollars or more per month to do whatever you want with? The economy today has to be played right... Stick with what you've got.
3. Ok, first of all, never get a new car- It is a rip off. New altimas range anywhere between 23,000-28,0000.... Do you know what kind of REAL cars you could get for that money? Just to name a few...2002 M3....350Z RX8...Z3...Boxster...911 even.... That being said Integras are great cars, and with modifications, could be really fast.... Ha, Altima coupe.......cmon....
4. Buying yourself a brand new car would be one of the dumbest decisions I can think of. In fact, I would never recommend ANYONE to buy a brand new car, no matter their financial position. Case in point, you already possess a PAID FOR car in good condition and low miles that should last you for years to come. And you want to add a $350-$400 car payment to your monthly expenses along with rent? New cars lose about half their value after two years, meaning there's an excellent chance that you'll soon be upside down on the loan and owe more than it's worth. Tell me please, what is it that you're really looking for in a brand new car? The warranty? The prestige of being its first owner? I really can't think of any other possible advantages, neither of which are of any value to me (but they might be to you). If the warranty and prestige of a brand new car is worth an extra $350-$400 a month to you for the next 4-5 years, then knock yourself out. But I think you'll be paying quite a large "stupid tax" on this one. If you want to be smart with your money and your vehicles, stick with the Acura.
5. Personally, I like to buy a car that is used as a dealer demo or one from last year still new. When you buy a new car like this, you can usually save tons of money over buying a brand spankin new car. For example, the Audi Dealer I work at still had a new 2007 Audi A6 until May (I don't know why it has never sold, it is beautiful; White w/ Cognac Leather) that was originally $53,500. With only 2,000 Miles, it is selling for $37,900. That is over $10,000 off MSRP! So, anther option for you to do is see if a dealer is selling a Demo, or wait until the end of the year for massive savings. Good Luck