In an update of a 1976 report expanded to include a passenger van, the factors influencing the costs of car ownership and operation are examined and methods suggested for obtaining the best value for the money spent. Selected 1979 model year vehicles (standard, compact, and subcompact size cars and a passenger van) and their costs are traced through a ten-year lifetime of 100,000 miles, based on operations in the Baltimore, Maryland suburbs. During the first year of operation the four study vehicles would have daily owning and operating costs of $10.79 (standard), $7.61 (compact), $5.82 (subcompact), and $17.67 (van). The portion attributable to gasoline costs, including taxes, would amount to $2.48 for the standard, $2.21 for the compact, $1.81 for the subcompact, and $3.31 for the van. The average total costs (cents/mile) over the ten-year lifetime would be 24.6 (standard), 21.7 (compact), 18.5 (subcompact), and 36.2 (van). Throughout this life, gasoline and oil costs, including taxes, would account for 26% of the total cost for the automobiles and 23% for the van. fuel conservation, preventive maintenance, and good driving habits can reduce the cost of operating a vehicle. Keeping records on vehicle expenses, particularly fuel consumption mpg figures, is recommended.
United States. Federal Highway Administration. Office of Highway Planning
1984-01-01
Abstract:
This report updates The Cost of Owning and Operating Automobiles and Vans - 1982. It traces selected vehicles in personal use and their costs through ...
United States. Federal Highway Administration. Office of Highway Planning
1982-01-01
Abstract:
This report updates "The Cost of Owning and Operating Automobiles and Vans--1979." It traces selected vehicles in personal use and their costs through...
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United States Department of Transportation
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