My wife and I made an offer on a used Prius on Friday and we pick it up later today. We're buying it from a private party who, after I told the 300,000 mile adventure story, said he had an extended family member who pretty solidly needed a car to get to work. It appears that the Accord will fall into new hands tomorrow, be restored to roadworthy condition, and continue in service for at least some period of time. This makes me incredibly happy. Also, I'm passing the car along free of charge. I hope to stay in touch with the new owner and possibly snag a photo of the odometer at 300K.
As for the Prius, we did a lot of research on vehicles before settling on this. We were shopping in the subcompact segment and were almost settled on a 2012 Honda Fit (base model) as it seemed like the best value in that segment and had great reviews, and it seemed like you could get a better deal on a new model than used.
Then about a week ago my wife suggested we consider the Prius. I wasn't convinced at first because they sell for more than what we wanted to spend, but while browsing Consumer Reports figured that the cost of ownership over 5 years was comparable to a new fit. On top of that, you get the added security against rising gas prices - as we intend to keep this vehicle for 10 years or 200,000 miles it's something we like.
Choosing the Prius is still somewhat of a gamble. At present it appears that battery replacement is certain within a 200,000 mile life (they are warrantied at 100,000mi and seem to be lasting around 150,000), but we're talking about a $3,000 fix in 2012. It should be cheaper in the future as battery technologies improve. Tires are another urban legend with many people suggesting that 30,000mi is the most you can squeeze out of a set of stock tires. Again, research suggests that there is a lot of value when purchasing a different model that doesn't compromise fuel economy too much but are warrantied for 80,000 miles.
We pick up the new car this evening, which leaves just one final detail to close out this blog - the future of the Accord.
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