Is it worth getting another car?

carbonmonoxide

I really like my car - but it's an R reg with a 1.6 engine and costs £215 a year in road tax. Even though it's low mileage (50,000) I know I won't get much for it if I sold it.

The way I see it, reasons for keeping it are: good runner, it's good nick and I know the service history, has so far passed MOT's since I've had (3 years), I only do 5000 miles a year so petrol costs aren't really a factor and upkeep so far has been cheap (just the usual costs and I got a new cam belt fitted and brakes done recently)

The only reason I can see for getting another car is the £30 tax, but am I going to get a car in better condition for what I paid for mine (£900) just for £185 yearly saving?

Indout96

If there is nothing wrong with it why change, if you spent £900 again it would take you over 5 years just to get that back by saving £175 a year.
Plus the £30 tax rate is for very low polution vehicles, can't see you getting one for £900.

bap98189

The short answer is no. At that price level you are buying pretty old cars and taking your chances. You may find a car that runs for years with no problems, or you may find a car that requires major work 3 months down the line. If you are happy with your current vehicle and it has been looked after I would stick with it.

carbonmonoxide

Thanks Indout96 and bap98189 - pretty much what I thought but the amount of tax I pay is annoying. I got lucky with this car as I know the previous owners and they had looked after it and I also know people who have spent a lot more on cars and had tons of problems, so think I'll stick with what I've got.

iolanthe07

The extra tax is a neglible expense compared with the potential costs of repairing a car that might turn out to be a shed. Stick with the devil you know.

Tucker

Keep it if it's reliable and going strong.

People often change cars when it makes little sense. The outlay for any newer car is not going to get recovered by saving on running costs if the one you have is fine.