Comparing car prices is often the first step for anyone looking to purchase a new vehicle. However, the initial price tag is just one part of the overall cost. To truly compare cars effectively, especially when considering different models and fuel types, it’s crucial to understand the total cost of ownership. This includes factors like fuel consumption, maintenance, and other operational expenses. Using a tool like a vehicle cost calculator can significantly simplify this comparison process, allowing you to see beyond the sticker price.
Understanding Your Driving Habits for Accurate Car Price Comparison
To get the most accurate comparison of car costs, it’s important to input details about your typical driving habits. This calculator takes into account how you use your car daily, which greatly influences fuel efficiency and overall running costs.
Normal Daily Use
To begin, consider your normal daily driving. You’ll need to provide the average distance you drive each day in miles. Think about your commute to work or school, daily errands, and regular trips. Next, input the number of days per week you typically drive and the number of weeks per year. Finally, estimate the percentage of your daily driving that is on highways versus city streets. Highway driving generally consumes less fuel per mile compared to city driving due to consistent speeds and fewer stops and starts.
Based on this information, the calculator will automatically estimate your Annual Driving Distance, City Distance, and Highway Distance. These calculations are vital for accurately determining fuel consumption and comparing the long-term costs of different vehicles.
Other Trips
Beyond your regular daily driving, consider any additional trips you take throughout the year. This could include longer road trips, vacations, or weekend getaways. Enter the total annual mileage for these “other trips” and estimate the percentage of highway driving for these trips. Including these miles provides a more complete picture of your overall vehicle usage and ensures a more accurate car price comparison that accounts for all driving scenarios.
Electricity Use for Electric Vehicle Comparison
If you are comparing electric vehicles or plug-in hybrids, electricity usage is a key factor in the overall cost. Select your state from the dropdown menu so the calculator can use local electricity prices to estimate charging costs and emissions. Then, indicate how often you typically plug in your electric vehicle during your normal daily use. The options range from “Twice a day” to “Every other day,” helping to refine the electricity consumption calculations for a realistic car price comparison.
E85 Ethanol and Biodiesel Fuel Use for Alternative Fuel Vehicles
For those considering flex-fuel vehicles that can run on E85 ethanol or diesel vehicles compatible with biodiesel, the calculator allows for even more precise comparisons. If you plan to use E85, specify the percentage of time you anticipate using it. Similarly, for biodiesel-compatible vehicles, indicate the biodiesel blend available to you and the percentage of biodiesel you expect to use. These inputs are essential for comparing the running costs of alternative fuel vehicles against traditional gasoline or diesel cars.
By carefully considering these factors and utilizing the vehicle cost calculator, you can move beyond simply comparing initial car prices and gain a deeper understanding of the total cost of ownership. This approach ensures a more informed decision when choosing your next vehicle, taking into account your individual driving needs and habits.
Disclaimer: The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) do not endorse any companies or products described on the Vehicle Cost Calculator. Vehicle prices and specifications change frequently. Not all data have been verified by DOE or NREL, which manages the site. Consult a dealer or vehicle manufacturer before making purchasing decisions.
