[Big Dave]

The idea of the right tool for the job is completely logical until you realize that for each additional “tool” you are signing up for another $500/mo payment. Sure, an Insight/Prius for the daily commute, a F350 for hauling stuff and a van for hauling the tribe makes perfect sense but if you were wealthy to carry $2,000 in vehicle payments, why worry? Going 'used' only reduces the magnitude. but not the general principle.

The economically elegant solution is the compromise vehicle that fulfills all the common missions. Maybe my parents weren’t wrong. The family chromium bulldozer – A Chevy Impala – hauled the tribe, pulled a good –sized trailer, and was an acceptable commuter. All on one payment.