[M_a_t_t]

In general, there are very few things I want to buy new. Some things I can't find what I want used, but I always check first. I try to buy gently used things at a discount from new rather than rock-bottom for your dollar, but well used things. I think electronics can be hard to judge and need to be considered situationally. Would I buy a used computer? Probably not unless I knew where it was coming from. Would I buy a used radio? Yes, I can bring a car battery and just use some leads to see if it powers on and possibly fix it if the problem is obvious (burnt resistor, bad solder joint, etc.).

My viewpoint for a car is much different. I prefer older things (notice the years of my stuff in the signature not counting the bike) and I work on my cars as a hobby so my preference is very high up there when choosing one. Up keep is relatively cheap for them and I'm not having to buy any new tech to service it which sometimes comes with a premium price tag.

I however, try not to work on other people's cars. With the exception of my Mom's car I don't usually touch anyone else's car unless I'm helping you do it. I started to a few years ago and quickly became burdened by it. When it was time for my Mom to get a new car (she doesn't like "older" cars, even if they were new-ish when she got it) I suggested getting something used, but in the best condition she could afford. Settled on a 2008 Hyundai Veracruz AWD. So far it's been ok. New enough, but old enough to not rely on anything too away from the tools I currently have.

The economic impact of a slightly used car is hard to judge I would think. It's not like you not buying it would mean it wasn't ever manufactured.