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Originally Posted by ciderbarrel
Math to the rescue!
The break even point for the Leaf would be 11.86 years. Assume you spend $500 a year in repair costs for the Corolla, it would be 9.15 years. At $1000 in repairs a year, it would take 7.44 years.
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11.86 years would be nearly 180,000 miles given your example!
I've attempted to do the math, but the variables are so many and varied that it's very difficult. I have to estimate the average real price of gasoline over the course of 15 years. Then I have to assume Oregon won't figure out how to charge road tax on electrics over those 15 years. Maintenance/repairs is a consideration, but I've never averaged even $100/yr for any vehicle I've owned. However, I have blown an entire weekend replacing a clutch on a Subaru, so not having to do these repairs is worth something.
If the math came out close, but not quite in favor of the Leaf, I could still be interested since it has modern conveniences such as bluetooth, heated seats/steering wheel. climate control, etc. Not having to calculate and consider the cost of fuel for a given trip is also a relief.
[QUOTE=jeff88;365789]Although a TDI (golf or jetta) would be nice, you also have to remember about being a diesel.[quote]
Mom and Dad aren't picky, and my dad drives my diesel truck already. What special consideration needs to be made about a diesel other than making sure it isn't run out of fuel?
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Between the base FE and some MODs you can do from EM, you can have a really super high mileage vehicle if you get the TDI.
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What kind of mods are we talking, and how much does it improve mileage? Just wondering if they are diesel specific, or the general aero improvements.
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Have you considered an SUV? Maybe an Escape Hybrid? You can find them for cheaper than a leaf, but still get some pretty decent mileage... You can also look into converting it into a Plug-in...
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I considered it once when looking at an Oregon State auto auction. I'm not sure how much utility I would get out of it on a regular basis unless I start loading bicycles into it. The plug-in conversion idea sounds like it could be a smart move. I could commute and still get groceries for free. I do make a 130mi round-trip every 2 weeks that would be nice to do for free also, but that only accounts for 3,250 miles per year.
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If you're still interested about the leaf, what about the Volt? Price-wise not much better, but still worth looking into.
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The math just doesn't seem to suggest it would be the best financial decision. I also hate the idea of having all the maintenance and weight associated with an gasoline vehicle, with the added weight and expense of an electric power plant.
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Just FYI, if in your search you find a decent 8th generation Corolla (1998-2002), make sure it is not burning oil.
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I'm only looking at 2004 and newer for the fiance and Mom, but that is good info. Any other tips related to the Corolla? I'm leaning towards that option since it's possible to get 40mpg with the manual, and they don't cost too much.
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Just my thoughts, I'll probably have more later!...
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Thanks! Keep 'em coming. I like to explore ideas I haven't thought of yet, and you have some good ones.