Used Dozers

New cars are for dopes. They’re meant to appeal to suckers. Sure, they’re nice and all — in fact, they’re downright gorgeous. It’s hard to not want one, especially if you happen to catch it doing donuts out in the desert on some commercial. Sleek interiors, the polish of leather, and all hat aerodynamic business is enough to make any boob tube slave want to ditch their bucket of bolts and finance a new beauty.

The big problem: the cost. New cars are so damned expensive. I don’t care what make or model catches your fancy, you’re looking to finance at least $12,000 easy. Hen, depending on your credit score, you could end up paying more like $20,000 for the privilege of driving that sleek beast. Who said being a sucker wasn’t stylish?

Now that I’ve got our attention with the jab, here comes the body blow. Any used car for sale you can find online is bound to cost you a third of the cost of a new one. You can bag yourself a fully loaded, slightly older model for peanuts. Here’s a choice: $12,000 for a new Ford Focus or $3,000 for a 2005 or 2006 model? Thought so.

Sure, the prospect of buying a used car conjures a host of seedy dealerships and loser salesmen out to do you in. But you can find reputable dealers online — in fact, you can even find out of the dealership has managed to find its way to Rip Off Report or the BBB. Do your research — there’s no sense finding a great deal and paying a dirty dealer for it.

What should you do if the mileage on that lovely used car is astronomical? Well, it depends on the make. Most Volvos don’t get started until they’re well past 100 K. A ‘64 Ford Mustang, on the other hand, might be better off as a weekend or show car. The key is knowing what you’re going to need the car far. It is for commuting everyday? Then pass on the ‘56 Bel Air and find yourself a car less than 10 years old.

You can find a load of used cars for sale online and bag yourself a beauty of a deal. Just stay frosty and make sure you’re dealing with a reputable dealership.