anybody have any strong opinions? Is there a big difference between the 2004 and 2005? I am hoping to get a good price on a used 2004,
Its like anything else you need to weigh the economic savings and make your personal choice. I opted to get a used Prius just two months ago. I found a great deal on an '02 that only had 7,200 miles on it and was in showroom condition - I only paid $16K for it. Sure I could have bought a new one that gets 10-15% better gas mileage but at what price - another $8,000 or so? In my book $8K pays for a hell of a lot of gas, and a car with only 7,200 miles is almost new. Heck, in the last 5 weeks we have put over 2,500 mile on the car.
Depends upon your needs, priorities, finances, etc. Normally I'd say that getting the used makes a lot more financial sense. The problem is that it is very hard to find a good used '04/'05 for a good price. Usually you get a brand spanking new one for only a couple thousand more than the used. To me it is much more satisfying to have a brand spanking new car. You know it was never abused, always cared for well, you get that 'new owner' pride and all that. If you're willing to get one of the 1G Prii then you probably can make a very solid financial arguement for that. That said, this market changes very quickly and you may, very well, be able to find an excellent deal on a used '04 that would make financial sense.
Considerations: 1) tax credit is for new car only 2) ceiling pad buttons on '05 ;-) 3) condition of used car--this is everything. If it's like new, it will probably be a better deal, even with the loss of the tax deduction. Do your math and choose; it all depends on price and condition. Unusual to find these cars for sale-- ask why and get a carfax report.
Good point about being hard to find and then why are they getting rid of it. I know mine was driven by a customer of mine that only used it a little in town and lived out of state 6 months out the year. The car was three years old and "it was time to get a new car". It was taken to the dealer every 4 months for an oil change and going over. That is the type of car you want to find.
Thanks, so in terms of the actual car there is no big difference in quality between the 05 and 04. right?
There's no significant difference at all. If you buy a used '04 privately make sure it's had all the SSC and LSC performed as many of the earlier models required some programming and such.
If you can get the VIN, a dealer can check it against Techinfo for you to be sure it has had all the campaigns done.
