New 2004 Honda Civic Hybrid: Cost vs Savings

[Jimmy Snyder]

Another problem with cars in general, besides the points that Chroot brought up earlier, is that they depreciate (dramatically) in value.

A used Toyota Prius costs more than a new one. I believe the reason is that you have to get on a waiting list for a new one. My 2004 HCH cost $2000 less than a new one.

 

[motai]

A used Toyota Prius cost more than a new one. I believe the reason is that you have to get on a waiting list for a new one. My 2004 HCH cost $2000 less than a new one.

Hybrid cars tend to be an exception. But buying any other (pure internal combustion) car will be cheaper in used form than new.

"Drive a new car off the lot and it can lose 20 percent of its value." (http://www.edmunds.com/advice/strategies/articles/77147/article.html )

http://a332.g.akamai.net/f/332/936/12h/www.edmunds.com/media/news/column/lowdown/newcar_free/chart.500.jpg

Rather simplified graph, but it should do the trick.

On another note, it seems that hybrids will be car company's ace card, if they are in high enough demand with short supply, they can raise prices as they please.

 

[Jimmy Snyder]

On another note, it seems that hybrids will be car company's ace card, if they are in high enough demand with short supply, they can raise prices as they please.

And if they do, you can be sure that consumers will be shaking their fists at Bush about the high price of hybrids. If I see anyone else going 55 on the highway, I'll let you know.

 

[0TheSwerve0]

The 2006 model has http://automobiles.honda.com/models/audio_accessories.asp?ModelName=Civic+Hybrid" :
Honda Music Link (for iPod®)*
Designed specifically for Honda vehicles

* Play music from your Apple iPod through your vehicle's audio system
* Get crisp, digital-quality sound results
* Use the audio system's controls to search for and play music from your iPod
* Use the steering wheel-mounted audio control buttons to search for and play music from your iPod
* The Music Link system charges your iPod battery while it's connected and the vehicle is on
* Honda Music Link kit includes a dealer-installed Music Link cable, a Quick Reference Guide to get you started, and a Honda Music Link CD

 

[Jimmy Snyder]

My method for determining how many mpg I get is inexact. I divide the number of miles traveled between gasoline purchases by the number of gallons purchased. In the long term, this will give good results, but as I have only filled the tank twice, the number I got, 43 mpg, is subject to adjustment later when more data will be available.

This compares with the sticker that said I should get 47 mpg. I came rather close when you note the following:
http://autos.msn.com/advice/article.aspx?contentid=4023628

As I had resolved to do, I maintain a speed of 55 mph on the highway. It's easy to do as the car has cruise control. It's somewhat lonely though. Sometimes a tailgater comes along to keep me company, but soon they pass or exit. They seem to be shouting something and by the looks on their faces, it is a message of some urgency. I haven't yet deciphered it. If the Republicans lose seats in Congress, it will partly be because of gas prices. People are complaining that they really can't afford it and have to give up other things because of it. But apparently, driving at 70-75 mph in 65 mph zones is not one of the things they had to give up. Yet.

It is more difficult to maintain 55 mph in 25 mph zones, but I am determined to get the best mileage I can. My attitude is: If you don't like the way I drive, stay off the sidewalk.

I have not been able to keep my resolve with the air conditioning. I turn it on until the cabin cools down, then I turn it off until I get uncomfortable again. Then I turn it back on.