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Your Cash vs. Your Car

How much car can you really afford? That depends. The general rule of car ownership is that your vehicle should cost you no more than 10-15% of your income, according to financial experts. And don’t forget, there’s more to owning a car than just buying it — gas, repairs, and insurance are all part of the cost. But do most people take heed and follow these guidelines? Here's a sampling of what Redditors paid for their cars vs. how much money they make.

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Subaru Legacy

The 2023 Subaru Legacy starts at around $25K. Car and Driver says it has "snooze-worthy handling, no manual transmission option, and an anemic base engine."

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2005 Corolla

Edmunds estimates a 2005 Corolla in outstanding condition with no options has a trade-in value of $1,765. Dealer retail price is $3,867.

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2013 BMW 535i xDrive

A 2013 BMW 535i xDrive costs nearly $11K, according to Kelly Blue Book. That's a monthly payment of about $197. 

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2022 Porsche Macan GTS

Base price for a 2022 Porsche Macan GTS starts at around $81K. Maybe it's worth it, as Car and Driver calls it "the best Macan yet."

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2015 Ford Fiesta S

The 2015 Ford Fiesta S is cheap, starting at around $8K, but it has poor ratings for reliability and crash safety. 

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2017 Tacoma

The 2017 Tacoma starts at around $25K. Car and Driver calls it "a solid choice among mid-size pickup trucks."

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2023 Integra

The 2023 Integra is "a fun-to-drive small car," according to Car and Driver. At a starting price of approximately $32K, it better be.

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2019 Kia Stinger

"If you place the love of driving above impressing people with a flashy badge, the 2019 Kia Stinger is for you," claims Kelley Blue Book. The MSRP is around $25K.

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2010 Accord

You'll pay on average a starting price of around $8K for a 2010 Accord, according to J.D. Power. "Powerful yes but every bit as environmentally friendly and fuel-efficient," claims the review.

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2013 Jeep Wrangler

"The Jeep Wrangler for 2013 delivers an excellent balance of power and fuel economy," according to Kelley Blue Book. Pricing for a used one starts at around $19K.