Need help making decision and possibly finding new car

[EvilYoda]

So some of you may already know that I'm moving to Tempe at the end of the week. I've got the apartment set up and my stuff is on a moving truck, so the car is my last concern. The company originally offered to transport a vehicle and I had decided that I want a new one for a variety of reasons. A few obstacles have come up and now I'm days away from leaving and still no car.

The best deal I've gotten so far is this: 2008 Nissan Altima lease, 24 month term, $305/mo including tax, 12K miles a year, convenience package for powered seats. Nothing fancy, but a nice car, good rate, short term. Just something that's good for a while.

The other option is, obviously, to buy a vehicle. I can afford to buy something new, but I don't want to yet. As much as I know about cars, I might always miss something. I'd like something recent (5 or so years), <$10,000, good gas mileage and can even be a two seater. I've always wanted something a little sportier, but I guess I can suck it up on this one...my intention is to buy a 'Vette in the next 2 years.

HELP!

 

[dirtboy]

Leasing is good only if you are going to stay within the mileage limit. I'd suggest a 15k mile lease just to be on the safer side as most people exceed the typical 12k mile lease. If you post the terms of your lease, such as the residual and the money factor they are giving you, I am sure we can help you determine if this is a good deal.

 

[EvilYoda]

I'll stay within the 12K easily, I'm used to watching my mileage...my family's lease GM vehicles for a long time now. I don't have the residual and money factor numbers as I was in a rush today and didn't get to the dealer early enough (had dinner plans so I had to cut things short). They were good though, went through the usual "well, let me see what my manager can do" and she dropped it to $305 w/ tax from $299 w/o tax.

My main issue is that I'm so pressed for time...if I don't get a lease here, then I'll have to try to find something down there or buy a car - therefore, I'll be carless for that time being, although I might be able to drive a company car for that duration. As if I won't have enough to worry about with a new job, new apartment, new city, etc.

 

[ponyo]

AZ has no tax for private party used car purchase so that's the route I would take.

 

[EvilYoda]

Originally posted by: Naustica
AZ has no tax for private party used car purchase so that's the route I would take.

Whoa, that's extremely helpful, thanks Naustica! BTW, what's the tax down there anyway? Let's say I bought it at a dealer, for instance. From what I read, it's like 4.8 for AZ but then counties add on a second tax as well, which I think Maricopa's 1.4

 

[EvilYoda]

Nevermind, I've decided to give up and transport the 98 Grand Prix down there and just wait to buy a Vette.

Thanks all