Car Comparison Calculator

This calculator compares total cost of ownership for two vehicles over 5 years, including purchase price, fuel costs, maintenance expenses, and depreciation. It helps you make informed decisions by looking beyond just the sticker price.

1. 1

   Enter Vehicle 1 Details

   Input price, fuel economy, and estimated maintenance for first vehicle

2. 2

   Enter Vehicle 2 Details

   Input the same information for the second vehicle

3. 3

   Set Common Variables

   Enter annual mileage and current fuel price

4. 4

   Compare Results

   View side-by-side 5-year cost breakdown and savings

• 1

  Total cost of ownership often differs significantly from purchase price alone

• 2

  Fuel costs can add up to thousands in differences over 5 years

• 3

  Maintenance costs vary widely between brands and vehicle types

• 4

  Depreciation is often the largest ownership cost - consider vehicles that hold value

• 5

  Include insurance cost differences for a complete comparison

• Comparing only purchase price without considering ongoing costs

• Underestimating maintenance cost differences between vehicle types

• Ignoring depreciation which can be $5,000-15,000 over 5 years

• Using EPA fuel economy instead of real-world figures