During my most recent vacation to Disney World, my sister and I drove down. We drove my vehicle (Nissan Murano) which gets 21.5 miles per gallon. Along the drive, I asked her how many miles per gallon her car gets (Toyota Camry) and she said 34 miles per gallon. All I could think was why in the world we were journeying 600 miles each way to our favorite destination in my vehicle instead of hers!
Along the ride, I began to think about how car selection is important when purchasing a new vehicle. My Murano now nearly has 150,000 miles on it. So, I decided I would take a look at the cost of gas for my vehicle versus her vehicle assuming we both drove them for 150,000 miles. I also assumed the cost of gas per today’s average of $3.50 per gallon. Here is the review:
- Murano 150,000/21.5 miles per gallon = 6,977 gallons needed in the 150k lifetime
- Camry 150,000/34 miles per gallon = 4,412 gallons needed in the 150k lifetime
The difference is an extra 2,565 gallons needed to run the Murano over the Camry during the 150,000 miles. Multiply the 2,565 gallons times the rate of $3.50 to get the cost of $8,977.50. In other words, it will cost me an extra $8,977.50 to drive my Murano 150,000 miles more than what it will cost my sister to drive her Camry the same 150,000 miles. That is a huge difference!
So, when you look to purchase a vehicle, be sure to review the miles per gallon. If you get down to two different cars you are comparing, be sure to use a similar comparison of costs to see which one is the better deal for you and your family. The gas savings could help you in paying for your vacation to Disney!
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Natalie has been visiting Disney World and Disneyland with her son (currently age 5), husband and family for her theme park fun since 1978! Natalie’s passion for Disney has now combined with her Certified Public Accounting license to help other afford the vacation to Disney of their dreams! Be sure to check out http://MeetTheMagic.com for Disney articles from Cast Members and also many on trip planning and trip reports. Also, find many more Strategies for Paying for Disney posts at http://
Similarly, car insurance and upkeep can vary widely between vehicles. There are websites that have information about the cost/year for different vehicles you may be considering. I also drive a Camry. I have spent about $1000.00 in maintenance and repairs for 110,000 miles driven (not including tires). My husband probably spends $500.00/year (or more) to drive a VW.
Good tip!
kbb.com does the cost comparison per year. :) i just bought a new car and the gas millage was a big deal for me. both tips are great!