Questions about buying a new or used car

[White Castle]

So I'm looking to buy a car and I'm looking at mid size sedans. After looking around I've decided I really like the latest Infiniti's. Problem is the new ones are a little out of my price range, however there are 2008 models that are more what I'm looking for. (around $25k, with 15-20k miles on them)

I haven't ordered carfax reports yet but I did see one of the possibilities I found showing as a former rental car, which I suspect is the case with the others that are similarly priced since they are below the Kelly Blue Book value.

I guess I have two questions:

1) Has anyone ever purchased a used car that was previously a rental? If so, what have been your experiences?

2) For those who are owners of these types of cars, do you think it is worth it/better to get a 1 year old Infiniti or look at getting a more affordable version of that car class? (Altima, etc.- which I like, but not nearly as much as the Infiniti)

 

[Chult86]

I just bought a 2003 Infiniti G35 a couple months ago, and it's by far the best car I've ever owned, I got it for $8,700

The engines in the Infiniti's are the VQ35 engines (VQ37 2008+ I think), and they've been consistently rated one of the most reliable engines out there by far. Proper care and maintenance will make them last up to at least 250k miles. Also, I got the 6speed manual transmission, and the car is at 107k miles still on the OEM clutch, still smooth as silk shifting as well. The interiors are very luxurious, with just about everything you could ask for: Built in navigation, 6disc indash cd changer, steering wheel controls, the works. I love it, and recommend Infiniti to anyone who can afford them

You can get a 2006 model with under 30k miles for around $20k, and the car will still feel brand new at that point. Altima's suck

Buddy of mine has one, and the interior is trash compared to Infiniti's, and the engine on most Altimas are 2.5L, compared to the G35/G37's 3.5/3.7L. However, the newer Maxima's are very nice. Really though, with Nissan overall, you can't go wrong (Except the Versa

). It comes down how much power you want under the hood, and how nice you want the interior.

Visit here.

There you will learn everything you could want to know about every year/model.

Good luck!

 

[brntorng]

Buying a late model used car is usually a good value. Generally speaking, two years old is when the depreciation curve for most cars starts to get less steep and therefore the best buy insofar as the depreciation you will incur as an owner. Remember this when negotiating for any car, but especially a used car since good ones can take some time to find: Don't become emotional about having that specific car or you may compromise more than you should. Also, make it clear to the seller that you have another very similar car in your sights and could go either way depending on their willingness to negotiate--whether you do or not. Amazing what competition and buyer ambivalence does to a used car salesperson these days.

 

[UnBiased Horn]

Would buying a G35 be a good idea considering the G37 has replaced it?

 

[Chult86]

The G37 is just a slightly upgraded engine and newer exterior look. The G35 has a 3.5L engine, compared to the G37's 3.7L, about a 30HP difference between the two. The release of the G37 brought the G35 prices down to where us mere mortals can afford them

 

[AustinBat]

We've bought program cars (from rental companies) and have always had good luck with them. You don't have to pay for all the depreciation that a car gets when you drive it off the lot.

 

[White Castle]

Thanks for the insight, I'll just have to due my due dilligence if I end up getting a program or rental car. I guess the tough part would be getting the car dealer to let me take it to a pre-sale inspection.

I like the G35 sedan more and more, and yes I am a mere mortal so I probably will be staying away from the G37.

 

[brntorng]

For a pre-sale inspection, call Auto PI if you're in Austin or San Antonio. I've used them many times and they're first rate. And they're mobile so they'll go to the car wherever it is. They've never missed anything (i.e., no surprises once I owned the car) on any car I've had them inspect.