Driving or Train - which is cheaper?

Johnmcl7

I had a similar choice a few years ago although for me the train was more expensive and it took longer as I couldn't travel at ideal times and the train was often delayed in the evening.

However I took the train as I thought at least I could use the time on the train for reading or watching videos whereas in the car I'd have to be focused on driving.

Jackmydad

Assuming this is a regular thing:
If it's a reasonably easy drive without heavy traffic and with easy parking I'd drive rather than breaking the trip.
If it's heavy traffic and a pain to park, use the train.
Cost's not enough difference to outweigh convenience and the "cost" of the time taken in travelling in the real world IMHO.

Steve_KK

Don't forget the potential health benefits of not using the train every day. Since I started working from home and not commuting into London every day I've only had 1 cold in 2.5 years. My usual rate would be 3-4/year!

I'd personally use the car as I would find the drive relaxing and you can travel when you want, rather than around the public transport schedule. However, your personal situation will differ.

Regards,
Steve

Ergates

What about parking (when you drive in) - is that also free?

Have you looked at season tickets on the train, these can substantially reduce the cost.

agrinnall

There are some significant factors missing from the information you've provided. A number of people have already asked about parking at your destination if you drive. You also haven't said how long the train journey is, and what degree of comfort there would be on it (will you get a seat? can you work if you need to?). And your fuel consumption seems to have leapt from 55 mpg at the start of your post to 60 mpg at the end.

Smellyonion

The only time I have found a train to be cheaper is if parking costs are excessive (like London).


My car costs around 10p a mile in Fuel +1.5p in Maintenance + 2.3p insurance based on 15k a year. Overall 14p rounded up. Train is nowhere near this.


My work return trip (63 miles) is £8.82
By train, it is £16 cheapest (with 1/3rd rail card) and 30 min extra journey.

Cash-Cows

foxy-stoat wrote: »

Deprecation shouldn't be included in this calculation as he already has the car and there is no sale date.

I disagree and some charge should be made against a future car purchase. The only time a charge shouldn't be made is if the OP intends to never replace it at end of life.

coffeehound

agrinnall wrote: »

And your fuel consumption seems to have leapt from 55 mpg at the start of your post to 60 mpg at the end.

Also would expect actual fuel consumption to be considerably higher than the overall average for 4-mile journeys from cold. .

.