A car does not cost when you buy it, it costs while you keep it. Before choosing a model, write these five items down and add them up.
- TPL insurance — prices differ by company, ask two or three.
- Inspection and registration every year.
- Service: oil and filters at least once a year, plus parts by mileage.
- Tyres: one winter set and one summer set last several years — spread the cost.
- Fuel: your annual kilometres times consumption times price. Usually the biggest item.
Parts availability matters more than the badge. For models common here parts are cheap and quick; for a rare model you wait weeks and pay double.