Just got the word from the wife that she wants me to get rid of my black beauty 1999 V70 T5 for a more economical vehicle due the gas prices. Should I or not?

A study last week underlined how the perceived fuel savings are over estimated by drivers, vs total cost of ownership. Paying off that "electric" for which the true operating cost is still very foggy (temporarily free charges or the "my bill went up $1.43 last month" news story ain't for real), ranges from 10-27 years depending on vehicles used in the calculation. Good luck even finding something with the capacity and performance of the 70 series that gets better than low to mid 20s. Forget almost any SUV no matter how few passengers. Forget a new S60, S80, XC60, and C30. Believe me, I'd like to take that trip to Gottenburg, but I can't really find a car I need. It will cost you money to listen to the wife on this one.

As others have stated, the cheapest thing is to keep the current ride. You won't get much of anything as a trade, what would you buy instead?

A friend got $1500 trading their 98 V70. A new Honda Fit would cost about $15k. Your current ride ought to yield at least 25 mpg hwy, the Fit about 35.

Sit the DW down with a calculator and figure out how many gallons of gas will be required to recoup the cost of the new car. If she still is not convinced, go drive a Fit. That ought to end the converstation.

Instead, what outstanding matainence is present on the current car? Spend the relative small amount required and bring the car up to peak efficiency.

Does the DW even know what mileage the current car is returning?

That friend who traded in her V70, it needed $2500 worth of work. Instead they spent $33k (that they don't have) for an A6. Which makes zero sense to me, but her husband is a doofus.

Good luck.

Good day to all that responded. The T5 is getting 26 highway, I don't drive in the city that often, I live in the country. The car is in excellent condition. I drive to and from South Carolina to Philadelphia every two weeks for work. I have all the maintenance up to date. As all of you have stated, I am reluctant to start a new car payment when I own the T5. Yes, the taxes will be higher.

Another suggestion? Rent a car for a week, one that the DW would like to have. Take it on the highway for an extended drive, better yet, on a 2 lane that will have a lot of oncoming trucks so you can remenber what it feels like to be 'blown' off the road. Or get stuck behind a semi doing 50 up a long straight hill and you want to pass?

A week in a Prius should give you a lot to think about!!!

Don't forget, the T5 has verrrrry comfortable seats.

Klaus
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Volvos should be saved from the junk yards, not donated.

Thanks Klaus, the T5 will stay with me. I love my baby!!!!!!

One more thought - ARD / Lucky will sell you an ECU tuned for max mileage. You will lose some power, but it will be a heckuva lot cheeper that a new ride and may pacify the DW.

Good luck.

I've always wondered if ARD had economy-oriented tunes. I may look in to this someday....
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1998 V70 AWD->FWD->AWD Turbo 220k+

If the T5 is in good condition, how much fuel money would you save Vs a new econobox? How much would you spend for this new econobox?
If you have a short commute, buy a used bicycle!

Klaus
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Volvos should be saved from the junk yards, not donated.

FWIW: Just the taxes on a newer car will pay for your higher(?) fuel cost on your T-5 for a very long time. Also, a more economical car may not provide the
same level of safety in a bad accident.

Hello, You know about your family's finances. We do not. A few more details would make this a more inviting question; such as, the mileage and condition of your car. At least then we could ballpark what you'd get for it. Are there multiple vehicles in your stable? Do you need a 4WD/AWD vehicle in the first place? Can you utilize a Chevy Volt or Nissan Leaf with a more fuel frugal car? There are too many details to ask about. Kira