You enter MPG, annual miles, gas price, monthly insurance, and yearly maintenance for two vehicles. The tool divides annual miles by MPG and multiplies by gas price for fuel cost, adds 12 months of insurance and yearly maintenance to get total annual cost per car, then compares them. The 5-year savings assume costs remain constant — in practice, maintenance and insurance tend to rise as vehicles age.
No. This calculator compares operating costs only — fuel, insurance, and maintenance. To factor in purchase price, use the car payment and car depreciation calculators alongside this one for a fuller cost-of-ownership picture.
A reasonable starting estimate is $500–$800 per year for a newer car under warranty, and $1,000–$1,500 per year for an older vehicle. Check your manufacturer's service schedule and factor in tires, brakes, and fluid changes.
For EVs, enter the equivalent fuel cost by dividing your electricity rate by the car's efficiency (miles per kWh). For hybrids, use the EPA combined MPG. Insurance and maintenance inputs work the same for any vehicle type.
Usually yes, unless one car requires premium fuel and the other does not. Premium gas typically costs $0.40–$0.80 more per gallon than regular — enter each car's actual fuel cost.
Estimate only. Results reflect your inputs and standard formulas. Double-check important decisions independently.