What each choice really costs you
Shorter bar winsOver 5 years, owning costs about $936 less — roughly $16/month.
Over 5 years, the better financial decision is Owning.
Assuming you invest the cash flow differences at 7%.
Financing (Own)
Controls the depreciation curve. Toyota/Honda retain ~65%. Luxury brands retain ~45%.
Leasing (Rent)
If you keep the car longer than the Lease Term, we assume you return it and lease an identical one under the exact same terms. If your timeline ends mid‑lease, the unused share of that deposit is credited back — mirroring the resale value an owner recovers.
Owner End State
Year 5Leaser End State
Year 5Beyond the Spreadsheet
Why Own Anyway?
- No mileage limits or anxiety about driving too much.
- Freedom to customize, modify, or sell the car at any time.
- Eventual payment-free months once the loan is fully paid off.
Why Lease Anyway?
- Always driving a car under warranty with the latest tech and safety.
- Zero risk on resale value crashing due to market shifts or accidents.
- Often lets you drive a nicer, more expensive car for a lower monthly payment.