What makes more sense...driving a long paid for old truck, or making huge payments??

[MF283]

One thing i like about the new cars braking systems, they can't ride your butt:laughing:

 

[Turbys_1700]

Now that I am older my tastes have changed and buying new with a payment is not on the top of my list of things I want. We currently run 4 older vehicles with higher mileage and get along fine with zero payments. The plan is to ditch the 01 LeSabre if an when it croaks. Don't know when that will happen. It does not look too good with the dash peeling up like a lot of them do but the thing just keeps on running and running and running. I've spent some $$$ on repairs but they are very reasonable having a local independent mechanic at my disposal and parts prices are not expensive at all. Two weeks ago I replaced a battery in the truck and last week the wife's daily driver battery went out. Didn't have time to run over to Advance to get one put in so she just drove the Century. Having 2 to run on and 2 spares has it advantages. Since they are paid for I only carry liability insurance and the taxes on older vehicles are low.

 

[Steppenwolfe]

I always wonder why so so many people just HAVE to HAVE something new that depreciates a third once you drive it home. NO THANKS.

On the opposite end, I wouldn't drive an old clunker...

 

[ovrszd]

On the opposite end, I wouldn't drive an old clunker...

And that explains it. Absolutely dependent on each person's tolerance. No right or wrong.

 

[hslogger]

I jes'gotta chime in on this. I got buddies that pride themselves in their frugality and drive ancient rigs. Some could buy anything new cash, others would have to make payments. Nine months ago I found a 2014 with 7500 miles on it. I parked my 225k mile rig that was born in 1994. Hey, any one can drive a beater for ever if they want. The technology and advancements in a new rig that is WELL ENGINEERED and not a piece of garbage is well worth getting into. Better safety items like traction and air bags come to my mind. If you can swing something newer and BETTER, then go for it. Ya only live once, gents'

 

[Industrial Toys]

I bought my vehicle new. Paid cash, and still have it eight years later. It provided many years of repair free service. People never figure that into the "1/3 value lost when you drive it off the lot". My friend only buys used, and immediately has all kinds of repairs and repeats this every three years or so. What a hassle!.

 

[Retiredguy2]

On the opposite end, I wouldn't drive an old clunker...

Have to wonder what defines a clunker? Both my Y2K and '04 have excellent original paint and interiors, no rust all all, have never failed to start and be dead reliable...both go and stop well, have nearly new premium batteries and belts and hoses and antifreeze, and the tires are very good or only a year old on the GMC. EVERYTHING works on both of them. Just because they are old does not make them a clunker.

 

[ovrszd]

Have to wonder what defines a clunker? Both my Y2K and '04 have excellent original paint and interiors, no rust all all, have never failed to start and be dead reliable...both go and stop well, have nearly new premium batteries and belts and hoses and antifreeze, and the tires are very good or only a year old on the GMC. EVERYTHING works on both of them. Just because they are old does not make them a clunker.

It'll be interesting to hear his description of a clunker.

 

[bcp]

I wouldn't want to drive a new clunker, either.



Bruce

 

[ovrszd]

I wouldn't want to drive a new clunker, either.



Bruce

This might be in the top 5 of best responses ever!!!!!