Buying a car: long-term benefit or unnecessary expense?

Buying a car benefit in 2025 is a question that concerns many people, especially in the context of rising car prices and changes in the economic situation. For example, the average cost of a new car in Russia has reached 3.2 million rubles, and monthly maintenance costs can be 15-20 thousand rubles. Also, the growing popularity of renting and carsharing makes you wonder whether it is worth owning a car at all. In this article, we will analyse whether the purchase brings long-term benefits or becomes an unnecessary expense. Let's get into the details.

Financial costs: buying a car benefit

Buying a car requires significant investments. For example, a new car for 3.2 million roubles, taking into account a car loan for 5 years, will cost 65 thousand roubles monthly at a rate of 15%. Also, KASKO and MTPL insurance adds about 120 thousand rubles a year. In addition, the annual cost of fuel, maintenance and taxes is about 150 thousand rubles. This makes ownership expensive. Thus, the purchase can become a financial burden.

Initial investments

The initial purchase costs are high. For example, the first instalment on the loan is 20%, that is, 640 thousand rubles for a car for 3.2 million. Also registration and insurance add another 130 thousand rubles. In addition, the purchase of winter tyres and mats increases the cost by 50 thousand rubles. This creates a financial burden. Therefore, the purchase requires careful planning.

Monthly expenses

The monthly costs of ownership are also significant. For example, a loan payment of 65 thousand roubles is just the beginning. Also, fuel to run 15 thousand kilometres a year costs 60 thousand roubles. In addition, maintenance and minor repairs add another 30 thousand rubles a year. This increases the burden. Thus, ownership requires constant costs.

Long-term benefit: buying a car benefit

Buying a car can bring long-term benefits, especially if you plan to use the car for more than 5 years. For example, after paying off the loan, you stop paying 65,000 roubles a month. You can also sell the car, returning part of the funds. In addition, ownership allows you to save on rent in the long term. This makes the purchase attractive. Therefore, the purchase can be profitable.

Residual value

The residual value of a car is an important factor. For example, after 5 years, a car for 3.2 million roubles may cost 1.92 million roubles. Also, some models, such as the Toyota Camry, retain up to 70% of value. In addition, the sale of the car returns part of the investment. This adds to the benefits. Thus, the purchase can be an investment.

Savings on rent

Ownership saves on rent. For example, renting a car for 40 thousand roubles a month will cost 2.4 million roubles for 5 years. Also, for 10 years, renting will cost 4.8 million rubles. In addition, buying a car for 3.2 million rubles, taking into account the costs, can be cheaper. This makes ownership profitable. Therefore, the purchase is suitable for long-term use.

Hidden costs: car purchase costs

Hidden costs when buying a car can make ownership less favourable. For example, repairs after an accident can cost 200 thousand roubles. Also, paid parking in the city adds 50 thousand roubles a year. In addition, fines for traffic violations increase costs. This creates risks. Thus, the purchase may become an unnecessary expense.

Unforeseen costs

Unforeseen costs are a serious disadvantage. For example, replacing parts such as a battery can cost 20 thousand roubles. Also, repairs after a minor accident add another 50 thousand roubles. In addition, rising prices for spare parts increase costs. This creates financial risks. Therefore, ownership can be more expensive than it seems.

Amortisation

Depreciation reduces the benefit of the purchase. For example, a car for 3.2 million roubles will lose 40% of value after 5 years, i.e. 1.28 million roubles. Also, older models are harder to sell. In addition, new technologies make the car obsolete. This reduces the benefit. Thus, depreciation is an important factor.

Practicality: buying a car benefits

The practicality of your purchase depends on your lifestyle. For example, owning a car gives you freedom of movement and accessibility at all times. A car is also convenient for families with children or long journeys. On the other hand, buying involves hassles such as maintenance and parking. Also, renting may be more practical for infrequent journeys. Therefore, the choice depends on your needs.

Freedom of movement

Ownership gives you freedom. For example, you can go at any time without a reservation. Also, the car is always available for long journeys. In addition, you can customise the car to suit you. This adds to the convenience. Thus, the purchase is suitable for those who travel frequently.

Maintenance hassles

Ownership is associated with hassle. For example, you need to do your own repairs and maintenance. Also, parking in the city can be a problem. In addition, selling a car takes time and effort. This creates inconvenience. Therefore, buying it can be burdensome.

Economic factors: car purchase costs

Economic factors in 2025 affect the benefit of a purchase. For example, inflation at 6% increases the cost of cars and parts. Also, high car loan rates - around 15% - make buying more expensive. On the other hand, car purchase benefit depends on income stability. In addition, rising fuel prices increase the cost of ownership. Thus, the economic situation plays an important role.

Inflation and prices

Inflation in 2025 increases the cost of ownership. For example, car prices have increased by 10% compared to 2024. Also, spare parts have become more expensive by 15%. In addition, fuel has become more expensive by 10%. This increases the costs. Therefore, it may become less favourable to buy.

Loans and overpayments

Car loans in 2025 are expensive. For example, the overpayment on a loan for 3.2 million rubles for 5 years will be 1.5 million rubles. Also, high rates increase the monthly payment. In addition, it reduces the overall benefit of the purchase. This makes ownership less attractive. Thus, loans are an important factor.

Psychological aspects: buying a car benefits

Psychological aspects also influence the choice. For example, buying a car creates a sense of stability and status. Also, ownership gives confidence in the availability of transport. On the other hand, buying is associated with stress due to maintenance and financial costs. Also, leasing can give freedom from commitment. Therefore, the choice depends on your values.

Sense of ownership

Ownership creates a sense of control. For example, you can customise your car to suit you. Ownership also gives you confidence in the availability of transport. It is also a status symbol for many people. This is important psychologically. Thus, the purchase is suitable for those who value stability.

Commitment stress

Ownership can be stressful. For example, you are responsible for repairs and maintenance. Also, the financial costs create pressure. In addition, selling a car can be complicated. This adds to the hassle. Therefore, buying it can be burdensome.

Technology trends: buying a car is a benefit

Technology trends in 2025 affect the benefit of a purchase. For example, the growing popularity of electric cars increases the purchase price due to expensive batteries. Also, carsharing and subscription services are making rentals more affordable. In addition, the development of autonomous driving may reduce the need for a personal car. This changes the approach to ownership. Therefore, buying may become less relevant.

Electric vehicles and their impact

Electric cars are changing the market. For example, the cost of an electric car in 2025 starts from 4 million roubles. Also, the charging infrastructure is still underdeveloped. In addition, buying an electric car requires a large investment. This reduces the benefit. Thus, the purchase may be less attractive.

Carsharing and subscriptions

Carsharing and subscriptions are gaining popularity. For example, services like Delimobil offer rent by the minute. Also, subscription models allow you to use a car for a fixed fee. It also takes away the worry of insurance. This makes life easier. That's why such services compete with buying.

Conclusion: buying a car is beneficial

Buying a car benefit in 2025 depends on your plans, finances and lifestyle. Owning brings long-term benefits, especially if you use the car for more than 5 years, but involves high costs and hassle. Also, buying can be an unnecessary expense with rising prices and rental availability. The choice is yours and it is important to consider all factors. So weigh up the pros and cons before deciding.