Is it better to buy a new or used car?

Now this is a topic that is loaded with that overused disclaimer: “depends on”.

Truth is, buying a new car vs used car does depend on so much — the main factor being cost! The depreciation of a new car is faster than a used car, so there are always going to be different pros to use when you’re looking to convince yourself, either way.

At a glance, when it comes to:

• New car vs used car financing — your monthly premiums are lower on a used car
• New car vs used car insurance — your insurance premiums will be lower on a used car

…but there’s so much more to this rather healthy debate than just the above.

Difference Between Buying A New Car vs Used Car 

What is the difference between buying a new car and used car?

When it comes to a used car, your financial outlay is considerably less. This means that you could essentially still chase the dream of the brand you want but go in for something like a demo model, or even a used model but with low mileage — thereby reducing your instalment and saving on your monthly costs. How you use that saving could be strategically applied, perhaps to an extension of the service plan or warranty.

Now we would never discourage anyone from buying one of our industry-lauded four models — new! But it would be somewhat vapid to ignore the fact that the cost of living has many of us making choices on where our money is best used.

While making the same argument buying a new car vs used car for different brands would look and sound a lot different, depending, a sobering fact is that over 90% of Subarus built within the last 12 years can still be found on the road to this day. Throw that into the new car vs used car debate and it’s not as easy an argument to land.

In the case of Subaru, if you’re keen on the brand but are stretched on your budget, doesn’t knowing the longevity of a specific carmaker’s product put your mind at ease?

“Voetstoets” can be a scary area to negotiate — considering of course you were buying private and direct from the previous owner. It means that once you’ve put pen to paper and gotten behind the wheel, whatever will be… will be your problem. Best case scenario when buying a used car is to still do it through a legitimate dealership with all the recognition that comes with solid branding and reputation. That way you have recourse should something go awry.

New Car Vs Used Car Pros And Cons

Why buying a new car is better than used?

This is a no-brainer. If you’ve done the sums and worked out your affordability and the finance package works within your limits, and if a new Subaru is on your radar, you’re home free! The value isn’t just pegged at the figure you sign-off on.

Buying a new car vs used car

The most obvious pros when it comes to new car vs used car include:

• Being the first owner and the peace of mind that that gives you
• A new car comes with a service and/or maintenance plan(s) which play to your advantage as far as running costs go — serving you well in the long run
• Most modern cars come standard with the latest infotainment gadgets, engine technology, fuel efficiency rates and safety features, which helps offset your cost-debate because of what you’re getting for your money

Subaru has been constantly voted the brand that delivers the most value for money. When considering fuel costs, maintenance, insurance and all other expenses, Subaru is the most economical over time.

And on mechanical delivery? There’s no option better than a Subaru. That’s because the boxer engine helps reduce vibration, which helps the car run more efficiently and smoothly. This helps boost the lifespan of your vehicle too. And don’t forget, almost all of the models sold in the last 12 years are still making appearances on the roads around you!

Call us on +27 11 608 0116 or email info@subaru.co.za and find out why a second hand Subaru might just be your (second) best idea, yet. And of course if you’re looking to book a test drive of one of our brand new models, we’re ready and waiting. All our dealerships across the country are equipped to help you find the Subaru of your dreams.