See the True Cost of Every Car Option
Compare buying, leasing, or financing options side-by-side with full cost breakdowns. Factor in insurance, maintenance, gas, depreciation, and hidden fees to make the smartest decision.
Quick Insight
Cheapest option over 5 years
Add car options to compare
$0
Monthly average
$0
Total vs next best
$0 saved
Your Car Options
Add up to 3 car options to compare side-by-side. Include all details from your lease or purchase agreement.
How to use this tool
Compare car options like a pro
- Add your options. Enter details from your lease agreement, purchase offer, or financing terms.
- Include all costs. Don't forget insurance, maintenance, gas, and registration fees.
- Use real numbers. Get insurance quotes and research maintenance costs for accurate comparisons.
- Compare timelines. See how costs differ over 3, 5, 7, or 10 years.
- Consider depreciation. For purchases, your car's resale value reduces your total cost.
Understanding costs
What to include in your comparison
- Purchase/lease payments: Monthly payment or upfront purchase price.
- Down payment: Cash required at signing or purchase.
- Insurance: Get real quotes—costs vary dramatically by car model.
- Maintenance: Oil changes, tires, brakes. New cars: ~$50/mo. Older cars: ~$150/mo.
- Gas: Calculate based on your actual miles driven per month and the car's MPG.
- Registration & fees: Annual registration, inspection, tolls, parking.
- Depreciation: For purchases, consider the resale value to calculate true cost.
Smart car shopping
Key principles
- The 20/4/10 rule: 20% down, finance for no more than 4 years, keep payments under 10% of gross income.
- Total cost matters: A cheaper monthly payment might cost more over time due to longer terms and higher interest.
- Lease mileage: Overage fees ($0.25/mile) add up fast. Be honest about your driving.
- Gap insurance: Essential when financing with low down payment. Covers the difference between car value and loan amount.
- Negotiate the price, not the payment: Focus on "out the door price" not monthly payments.
Important Disclaimer
This calculator provides cost estimates for comparison purposes only. Actual costs will vary based on your specific situation, location, driving habits, and vehicle condition. Insurance rates, maintenance costs, and depreciation are estimates. Always get real quotes from insurance providers and review all contract terms carefully before making a decision. This tool does not constitute financial advice.