Older thread, however a worthwhile discussion:
We (SWMBO and I) have not bought a new vehicle in 30+ years--get 'em used, 2-3 years old with "lowish" mileage. Look for clean and no signs of UV damage to paint/plastics/headlamp housings/etc. Not "dealer cleaned" but signs that the previous owner kept them clean and garaged; that will indicate the PO's attitude toward maintenance. I got my always garaged '03 400 for $1800 with 12.3k miles last May, and a stack of receipts from the shop that maintained it--it now has 21k miles and runs "like a top".
Let the sap that bought it new be the one to eat the initial depreciation...






