Purchasing a new or used car can be a daunting task, especially for first-time buyers. There are so many factors to consider before deciding on what car would best suit one’s needs or wants, and getting the best value for one’s money can be a difficult endeavor too. One way to get an idea is to compare cars, the specifications of them, and their advantages and disadvantages against other vehicles within the same vehicle class. There’s an expansive list of factors to compare, however, from powertrains to trunk volume and everything in between. So what are some of the key factors to consider when making a comparison?
Factors to Consider
Price range
The first, and most obvious, factor to consider will be your budget. This will determine whether you opt for a brand-spanking-new vehicle or a used one. It will also determine whether you’ll be going for a flashy luxury ride or something a little more homespun and budget-friendly. Comparing prices between similar models of different brands, along with the key features for each, for example, is also a great way to tell how much value you’ll be getting for your money.
Purpose
Apart from the price range, the actual reason you’ll be needing a vehicle is probably the most important factor to consider before making a purchase decision, too – not only for the obvious private or commercial requirements but also for factors such as status. Vehicles are either designed with practical, functional purposes in mind or purely for the status they avail the driver with and exude outward to the world. Many times, these two elements can exist together; usually, however, it comes down to the badge.
Make
Many brands carry a particular trait or even a few that have, over the course of their existence, become synonymous with the brand through consistent delivery of whatever the trait may be. For example, Toyotas are renowned for their exceptional reliability and affordability while Mercedes-Benz’ are synonymous with premium quality and a price to match. Learning of these traits is another great way to narrow down your options, at least in terms of brands. Reading up on various reviews can help you get an idea of what traits are synonymous with certain brands.
Type
Essentially the type of vehicle you’d want will depend on your key daily requirements. If you’re looking for something fun to drive, your best bet will be looking at a performance-oriented sports car or even a hot-hatch. Those looking to haul family members around on a daily basis or who go on numerous vacations will want something like a sedan, crossover, or SUV. Those looking for adventure will want to consider something with 4×4 off-road capabilities which will come from your more rugged SUVs. Finally, trucks and vans are what your commercial or fleet businesses will most likely be considering.
Size classification
Every type of vehicle also varies in size with the classifications listed as subcompact, compact/small, mid-size, and full-size/large. The larger version of vehicle types are usually pricier than their smaller counterparts, but offer greater comfort and practicality for passengers. This is something you’d want to consider if you regularly drive alone, in which case a subcompact or compact would suffice. If you’re an avid vacationer or family-oriented household, something in the mid to full-size category would be better. These classifications typically affect passenger room and cargo space and in the case of trucks and vans, towing and payload capacities and body configurations.
Emissions and Fuel Economy
With eco-friendly living growing ever-popular globally, vehicle emissions have certainly become a significant factor to consider for many eco-conscious buyers when purchasing a car. While many gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles do still glug along on the streets today, more and more hybrids and electric vehicles are making an appearance. Cars, in general, have become a lot more fuel-efficient over the years, but no gas-guzzling motor can top a hybrid or electric vehicle when it comes to the miles per gallon they deliver and the low emissions they produce as well. While these electrified cars are usually more expensive, owners do earn value in high mileage returns and low fuel costs.
Reading up on reviews, watching video reviews, and taking cars on test drives are the best ways one can gather information on cars. Comparing that information between the prospective cars will then help you narrow down the options and eventually lead to you finding the perfect car for you.