I probably have changed my opinions on gas prices very dramatically in the last few months and it's really not only related to the cost of gas right now.
I used to drive somewhat out of my way to save less than $.10/gallon. I then realized that for my car, a 1996 Toyota Camry, which has a 17-gallon tank, I was only saving at most $1.70. I will admit though, I'm usually always interested in saving money any chance I can get, regardless of the actual amount. But, is going out of my way and using more gas worth the $1.70? I doubt it.
The reason I say that is because there are hundreds of other places and situations where we spend much more than $1.70 and don't even think about it.
- buying a drink at a restaurant instead of water w/ lemon
- using an ATM from another bank
- going to Starbucks before work instead of getting free coffee at work
It wasn't too long ago that my wife and I started looking for car buyers with the idea of trading her van, which gets about 17 miles/gallon if we're lucky. Oddly enough her van also has a 17-gallon tank, so we both spend about the same amount of money on a fill-up.
We thought about trying to sell the van and get a new Honda Civic Hybrid. The gas savings by comparison would have been tremendous. But with the increased and extended car payment, it may take a number of years to come out even. We might consider looking for fuel-efficient toyota trucks for sale.
Do you think it?s worth it?
Patric Welch says
This issue is dear to my heart primarily because I own a Toyota Prius. 3 years ago when I bought it everyone told me I was wasting my money and that it would only be worth the extra money if gas was $3/gallon. Look who's laughing now.
The other thing that always bugs me is when the media compares a hybrid car to another gasoline only car that gets like 35 mpg. These comparisons ALWAYS result in the gasoline only car being the better investment. What the comparisons never mention is how many "other" features you get in a Toyota Prius like side curtain airbags, rear view cameras, keyless smart ignition and more.
Sure, I can save thousands of dollars by getting a cheap sedan that gets 35 mpg. But I don't want a cheap sedan. And by no means does the Prius compare to a cheap sedan.
Ok, I'm done ranting now. Is there a prize for the longest comment on your blog?
Patric Welch says
This issue is dear to my heart primarily because I own a Toyota Prius. 3 years ago when I bought it everyone told me I was wasting my money and that it would only be worth the extra money if gas was $3/gallon. Look who’s laughing now.
The other thing that always bugs me is when the media compares a hybrid car to another gasoline only car that gets like 35 mpg. These comparisons ALWAYS result in the gasoline only car being the better investment. What the comparisons never mention is how many “other” features you get in a Toyota Prius like side curtain airbags, rear view cameras, keyless smart ignition and more.
Sure, I can save thousands of dollars by getting a cheap sedan that gets 35 mpg. But I don’t want a cheap sedan. And by no means does the Prius compare to a cheap sedan.
Ok, I’m done ranting now. Is there a prize for the longest comment on your blog?
bnpositive says
Are you kidding? You get a prize for commenting period! Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts.
bnpositive says
Are you kidding? You get a prize for commenting period! Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts.