[Moneyguy1]

My philosophy (haven't had a new car since 1976)

1. Drive vehicle until wheels fall off.

2. Reinstall wheels

3. Repeat as required.

All kidding aside, Our "grocery getter" is a 1993 VW Passat GLX with 92k. Sees about 5k or less per year. My wife loves that car, and would kill to keep it, I am convinced. When we want to take a long vacation, we rent from National (last time was 10 days for $280 for a Chevy Impala). No problems. Anything craps out, not my problem.

Last year, the Passat required about $500 in repairs. So far this year, just under $300.

New cars are a very bad deal and leases are good only if used in business. A lease is simply a way for many people to drive "more car" than they actually can afford. However, any used car should have a PPI. Worth the $90 to $100 many times over, if for no other reason, peace of mind (doesn't hurt for negotiating price either)