For modern cars, maintenance is not a significant expense compared to the purchase price and fuel. Insurance is cheap if one's not driving an expensive truck.

For modern cars, maintenance is not a significant expense compared to the purchase price and fuel. Insurance is cheap if one's not driving an expensive truck. I disagree with both of these assertions. No need to buy new, let some other sucker eat the depreciation. A 3-4 year old Corolla (or equivalent) shouldn't cost more than $10k. According to edmunds.com, your typical 4 year old Toyota Corolla will cost closer to $15k+.