THE NEW ECONOMICS... BUYING, OWNING, AND SELLING A CAR

Economic trends affecting the buying, owning, and reselling of automobiles are examined. If the public's demand for fuel-efficient cars is significant, the used car market may become obsolete. This is likely to happen only when 30% to 40% of the existing fleet (about 112 million cars) are fuel-efficient. Detroit, Japan, and Europe are leaning toward down-sized cars and front-wheel drive, but fuel economy will be accompanied by increased prices. Despite adverse economic trends, it is anticipated that longevity will be built into cars and that wages will increase to compensate for higher costs. The use of other transportation modes is suggested to minimize dependency on the automobile. Service costs and service availability are important considerations in purchasing a new vehicle, as well as the resale potential. The prospect of fuel rationing is outlined, with probable consequences.

  • Availability:
  • Corporate Authors:

    Petersen Publishing Company

    8490 Sunset Boulevard
    Los Angeles, CA  United States  90069
  • Authors:
    • Mandel, L
  • Publication Date: 1980-7

Media Info

  • Pagination: 5 p.
  • Serial:
    • Motor Trend
    • Volume: 32
    • Issue Number: 7
    • Publisher: Petersen Publishing Company
    • ISSN: 0027-2094

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 00389088
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Source Agency: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
  • Report/Paper Numbers: HS-029 572
  • Files: HSL, USDOT
  • Created Date: Sep 28 1984 12:00AM