Money · 6 min read
Cash or finance? Compare the whole car cost
A monthly payment can make two cars look similar even when their total cost and end-of-term position are very different.
Start with one purchase ceiling
Decide the maximum vehicle price before choosing the funding route. Deposit, interest, fees and any final payment then sit around the same comparable car.
Questions for any agreement
Ask for the APR, total amount payable, term, mileage allowance, excess-mileage rate, ownership position and early-settlement process in writing.
Protect the rest of your budget
Insurance, tax, servicing and tyres continue regardless of funding. A payment that leaves no buffer is not an affordable car.