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Ah cool info. I'm wondering whether the actual costs of ownership were higher or lower now or then though? I imagine now with the price of gas and insurance th
by dangoldin 18y ago
Ah cool info. I'm wondering whether the actual costs of ownership were higher or lower now or then though?
I imagine now with the price of gas and insurance the costs may come close.
In addition, let's not forget the fact that now families tend to have more than 1 car whereas before they used to have one.
- nostrademons 18y agoPrice of gas as a percentage of household income is significantly lower now than it was in the 70s, even with today's $4/gal. Remember that in inflation-adjusted terms, gas prices in 1973 were about $3.30. Figure in 50% or so real wage growth since then and we'd need about $5/gal gas to equal then.
- edw519 18y agoactual costs of ownership were higher or lower now or then though lol My current car has 40K miles and has never been in the shop except for routine maintenance. My last car had 100K miles without a lick of trouble. 35 years ago, it was not a question of "if" you had trouble, but "when". This was before front wheel drive, fuel injection, electronic ignition, imbedded computers, and manufacturer warranties. A $3000 car would normally cost at least another $3000 in repairs during its lifetime. (Unless it was a Pinto or Corvair that blew up) Factor in lost time broken down (without a cellphone of course), tow fees, and lost wages, and we forget how easy we have it now.