Downgrade to 2007 Ford Focus for $10,000?

jeffersonkim · 06-09-2006, 04:30 AM

Ok, I'm in an interesting situation. This is probably more of a problem of conscience and I was wondering what your opinion on all this was . . . or more specifically a question below.

I'm military here in Germany and bought a 2006 BMW 325i here, with no options except for the metallic grey paint, for about $27,600. I basically got graduation money from both my parents who have been divorced since I was a child and live in different states, and I had money saved up from college.

I've driven it about 2,500 miles over about the past 6 months. Yeah. . . I live that close to work.

So, here's the situation. Lately I've felt like I'm not feeling the vehicle out. God, it's luxurious, and has so many great features and all that. And everyone's impressed by me driving itbeing only 22, yadda ydaadd yadda. . . and it drives soooo smooth, and is a work of art, but I've come to the realization that I don't really care about luxury and all those frills right now, and I don't really care about the people being impressed with me driving a "nice" car. I'm thinking, maybe in 8 years, I may buy a 3-series, but right now it feels overkill . . .

I can buy a new sedan Ford Focus 2007 for $15,795 that'll have all the features I need (safety package, power windows, moon roof, etc.).

So. . . IF (and big IF) I somehow found a buyer to buy my car over here for $26,000 flat, then, I could potentially save $10,000 downgrading to the Ford Focus.

Money is not really an issue. I don't have any loans. I'm single. I live a very simple life. And I have a very promising future ahead (steady job, etc.) along with retirement, etc. blah. But then. . . I'm also conscience about spending money on things that really don't feel worth it to me. And spending $10,000 more for a car has been growing on my conscience as a "waste" of money.

Ok, here's the thing for all you fanatics out there!:

What is something the 2006 BMW 325i offers that the Ford Focus can never come close? How would you justify spending $10,000 more to "upgrade?" Would you be happy getting $10,000 in your bank account to downgrade your 2006 BMW 325i to a Ford Focus? Would you cry?

This is an issue I've been wrestling with lately. . . but I may be just stupid because I haven't even test driven the Ford Focus! It'll probably be like NIGHT AND DAY. Not including acceleration, etc. . . and the ride itself. Maybe because of the very little prolonged driving I've done, I just haven't realized the incredible COMFORT the BMW offers over the Ford over long distances. . . especially if I do road trips in the future when I get back into the states.

And maybe, it'll be better for me to just wait until I get back to the States in about 2 years, when I can resell the car for a better price, and buy a used Honda Civic with super low mileage which would be more "economically" smart in the end anyway. AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHhhhhhhhhh. So many little factors. . .but I'm thinking just waiting until I get back to the states may be the best idea.

Anyway, any of your thoughts would be great. Even if it's a "stop being dumb and enjoy your bimmer." I would appreciate it even more if you could add some more justification too, so that I can throw that into my thought flow.

Thanks in advance!

Asiann · 06-09-2006, 04:41 AM

Ok, I'm in the military too! So now you have this car and now what. What made you buy the car in the first place? You have it now and you need to hang on to it and give it a chance. You will lose lots of money if you trade it in. Better to take care of it for the remainder of your tour in Germany and bring it back to the states. When you get back here then you can get rid of it and trade it in for another car. You are 22 in the military with a great car that your friends will be jealous of. Consider yourself lucky to have such a great car at that age. The BMW is probably safer than the Ford anyway. BMW's hold their value very well and since you are not putting many miles on it, you will have no problem selling it later. If you really want to get rid of it then find someone willing to pay your loan off. Do not get them to take over payments since you will still be responsible. Once you have driven a BMW the rest seems useless. So don't be stupid and trade it in for a Ford Focus and make a poor decision. Keep the car that's an order! You won't regret it I promise!

LEDZEP · 06-09-2006, 04:57 AM

It sounds like you're doing some mature thinking about personal priorities and needs. That's a good thing. I won't offer an opinion to do one or the other, but at this time in your life there is a lot to be said for having $15,000 socked away and adding to that... for a future house, education, etc. You should think about your longer term plans. What goals do you have and what needs do you foresee?

There's nothing wrong with being frugal now and enjoying later.

Asiann · 06-09-2006, 05:01 AM

Nothing wrong with being frugal but trading the car now will cost and could put him in a financial hardship. I atleast hope he is with USAA. Going to Iraq soon or in the future from Germany?

jocamryn · 06-09-2006, 05:15 AM

I'm in Stuttgart maybe I can take it off of your hands?:rocks:

ZuerstBMW · 06-09-2006, 05:15 AM

I would keep the BMW. It is a much better and safe car. Ford sucks in everyway possible. You should have gotten a 1 Series. I would stay away from Ford though. Just my .02

Good luck with your decision.

jeffersonkim · 06-09-2006, 05:32 AM

Yeah, USAA's $20,000 2% APR Car loan! WOOT!

In terms of future plans. . .I have education covered by the G.I. Bill, and when I get out, I'll have the veterans' plan for 0 down on a mortagage.

I was doing some more thinking, and I realized, it'd make more sense for me to wait it out and I'll be able to sell for a higher price back in the states. The depreciation rate for the BMW and more "budget" cars correlate around the same rate not necessarily in percentage, but gross price. Plus, as I drive it more, I may come to appreciate the ride especially when it comes to longer commutes.

MG_2006325i_KG · 06-09-2006, 05:33 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Asiann

Ok, I'm in the military too! So now you have this car and now what. What made you buy the car in the first place? You have it now and you need to hang on to it and give it a chance. You will lose lots of money if you trade it in. Better to take care of it for the remainder of your tour in Germany and bring it back to the states. When you get back here then you can get rid of it and trade it in for another car. You are 22 in the military with a great car that your friends will be jealous of. Consider yourself lucky to have such a great car at that age. The BMW is probably safer than the Ford anyway. BMW's hold their value very well and since you are not putting many miles on it, you will have no problem selling it later. If you really want to get rid of it then find someone willing to pay your loan off. Do not get them to take over payments since you will still be responsible. Once you have driven a BMW the rest seems useless. So don't be stupid and trade it in for a Ford Focus and make a poor decision. Keep the car that's an order! You won't regret it I promise!

COLA pays for my car and insurance

jeffersonkim · 06-09-2006, 05:35 AM

Oh, and if it wasn't clear before. . . USAA gave me the $20,000 flat out (unsecured), and I had enough from my parents and my savings to pay for the car in cash. . . so basically, I invested the $20,000 loan from USAA because I easily can beat the 2% APR with EmigrantDirect savings or an S&P Index fund with Vanguard.

LEDZEP · 06-09-2006, 05:37 AM

You should get a Fit. The Fit is go.

jeffersonkim · 06-09-2006, 05:38 AM

Fit?

LEDZEP · 06-09-2006, 05:45 AM

Isn't that what it's called? Some new little car... I think a Toyota. Not sure - someone correct me. Bizzare TV commercials in the States.

ZuerstBMW · 06-09-2006, 07:09 AM

The 2007 Honda Fit.

Kamando · 06-09-2006, 07:23 AM

Military here also...

You're in Germany the perfect place to have a bimmer. If zipping up and down the autobahn isn't your thing take a trip, see the sights and find nice twisty roads. Your car will thank you

Just remember you have the chance to drive like you would never be able to in the United States and you have the right car to do it with.

fueledbymetal · 06-09-2006, 08:44 AM

Also worth noting is that the European Focus is significantly different than the US Focus, so it may not meet federalization requirements & therefore you may not be able to bring it back with you.

The European Focus is is on the 2nd gen platform (shared with the Mazda 3 & Volvo S40) whereas the US Focus is on a modified 1st gen platform. As a result, I don't think the current European Focus has ever been subjuected to US crash or emissions tests, which is why I'm not sure it could be legaly transfered here.

canucklion · 06-09-2006, 09:20 AM

what's with the generalization? FYI, the European Ford Focus has received rave reviews for its handling and chasis. Don't knock on something that you haven't even driven before.

To the OP: looks like you've got a good head on your shoulder, you can't go wrong with either decision.

Quote:

Originally Posted by ZuerstBMW

Ford sucks in everyway possible. You should have gotten a 1 Series. I would stay away from Ford though.

Collanrf · 06-09-2006, 09:34 AM

I'm in the military too. At least you know where your money is going, young kids tend to waste their money on liberty/party.

Participate or try to set up a meet, for sure you'll love your car more you won't even think about letting it go.

F32Fleet · 06-09-2006, 10:28 AM

Soundsl like a sound decision. I know what you're feeling and I'm in my early 30's. BMW's are fun to drive no doubt, but sometimes being able to get from A to B is more important than how you're getting there.

voltron1011 · 06-09-2006, 10:32 AM

If you decide to keep the E90, keep it for at least 6 years or more. That way you will really get your money's worth.
If you buy a Focus, chances are you will own for about 3 years before it will become boring, unreliable, etc, etc...
The focus will also depreciate like a brick, where-as BMW's hold their value much better.

golfpro · 06-09-2006, 10:38 AM

Im 23, fresh outta college and just bought my 325. The way i looked at it was that I have the money to buy it now because i dont have to pay for a house, i dont have to support kids (and a wife), so i bought the car i wanted now because who knows, i may not be able to afford it down the road...

hosagod · 06-09-2006, 10:53 AM

Keep the 325i, in the long run it will be the better investment.

Not to mention, the aftermarket mods you will be able to do to it in the future that will make it less "luxury" and more "sporty".

You're going to miss the BMW as soon as you sit inside the Focus. And don't get me started on Ford...sigh!

just4kickz · 06-09-2006, 10:58 AM

well if your looking at the long run and you live right next to ur job... i guess using a beater car would be more practical... you dont need a good car right now... and i'm sure in a few years you'll find owning a "luxury" car more rewarding.

06-09-2006, 04:30 AM	#1
jeffersonkim Private 5 Rep 51 Posts Drives: 2006 BMW 325i Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Orange County, California iTrader: (0)	Downgrade to 2007 Ford Focus for $10,000? Ok, I'm in an interesting situation. This is probably more of a problem of conscience and I was wondering what your opinion on all this was . . . or more specifically a question below. I'm military here in Germany and bought a 2006 BMW 325i here, with no options except for the metallic grey paint, for about $27,600. I basically got graduation money from both my parents who have been divorced since I was a child and live in different states, and I had money saved up from college. I've driven it about 2,500 miles over about the past 6 months. Yeah. . . I live that close to work. So, here's the situation. Lately I've felt like I'm not feeling the vehicle out. God, it's luxurious, and has so many great features and all that. And everyone's impressed by me driving itbeing only 22, yadda ydaadd yadda. . . and it drives soooo smooth, and is a work of art, but I've come to the realization that I don't really care about luxury and all those frills right now, and I don't really care about the people being impressed with me driving a "nice" car. I'm thinking, maybe in 8 years, I may buy a 3-series, but right now it feels overkill . . . I can buy a new sedan Ford Focus 2007 for $15,795 that'll have all the features I need (safety package, power windows, moon roof, etc.). So. . . IF (and big IF) I somehow found a buyer to buy my car over here for $26,000 flat, then, I could potentially save $10,000 downgrading to the Ford Focus. Money is not really an issue. I don't have any loans. I'm single. I live a very simple life. And I have a very promising future ahead (steady job, etc.) along with retirement, etc. blah. But then. . . I'm also conscience about spending money on things that really don't feel worth it to me. And spending $10,000 more for a car has been growing on my conscience as a "waste" of money. Ok, here's the thing for all you fanatics out there!: What is something the 2006 BMW 325i offers that the Ford Focus can never come close? How would you justify spending $10,000 more to "upgrade?" Would you be happy getting $10,000 in your bank account to downgrade your 2006 BMW 325i to a Ford Focus? Would you cry? This is an issue I've been wrestling with lately. . . but I may be just stupid because I haven't even test driven the Ford Focus! It'll probably be like NIGHT AND DAY. Not including acceleration, etc. . . and the ride itself. Maybe because of the very little prolonged driving I've done, I just haven't realized the incredible COMFORT the BMW offers over the Ford over long distances. . . especially if I do road trips in the future when I get back into the states. And maybe, it'll be better for me to just wait until I get back to the States in about 2 years, when I can resell the car for a better price, and buy a used Honda Civic with super low mileage which would be more "economically" smart in the end anyway. AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHhhhhhhhhh. So many little factors. . .but I'm thinking just waiting until I get back to the states may be the best idea. Anyway, any of your thoughts would be great. Even if it's a "stop being dumb and enjoy your bimmer." I would appreciate it even more if you could add some more justification too, so that I can throw that into my thought flow. Thanks in advance!
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06-09-2006, 04:41 AM	#2
Asiann Got Seoul? 116 Rep 2,862 Posts Drives: 2012 535i MSport Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Honolulu iTrader: (0) Garage List 2012 BMW 535i [0.00] 2008 750Li [0.00] 2006 BMW [0.00]	Ok, I'm in the military too! So now you have this car and now what. What made you buy the car in the first place? You have it now and you need to hang on to it and give it a chance. You will lose lots of money if you trade it in. Better to take care of it for the remainder of your tour in Germany and bring it back to the states. When you get back here then you can get rid of it and trade it in for another car. You are 22 in the military with a great car that your friends will be jealous of. Consider yourself lucky to have such a great car at that age. The BMW is probably safer than the Ford anyway. BMW's hold their value very well and since you are not putting many miles on it, you will have no problem selling it later. If you really want to get rid of it then find someone willing to pay your loan off. Do not get them to take over payments since you will still be responsible. Once you have driven a BMW the rest seems useless. So don't be stupid and trade it in for a Ford Focus and make a poor decision. Keep the car that's an order! You won't regret it I promise! __________________ Can you say Alooooha? [SIGPIC][/SIGPIC]
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06-09-2006, 04:57 AM	#3
LEDZEP Lieutenant General 417 Rep 12,276 Posts Drives: 2009 E70 & 2011 F25 Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Area 51 iTrader: (0) Garage List 2011 X3 35i M Sport [7.62] 2009 X5 M Sport [0.00] 2007 328xi E90 [0.00] 2006 325xiT E91 [0.00]	It sounds like you're doing some mature thinking about personal priorities and needs. That's a good thing. I won't offer an opinion to do one or the other, but at this time in your life there is a lot to be said for having $15,000 socked away and adding to that... for a future house, education, etc. You should think about your longer term plans. What goals do you have and what needs do you foresee? There's nothing wrong with being frugal now and enjoying later. __________________ I think it is bad luck to be superstitious
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06-09-2006, 05:01 AM	#4
Asiann Got Seoul? 116 Rep 2,862 Posts Drives: 2012 535i MSport Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Honolulu iTrader: (0) Garage List 2012 BMW 535i [0.00] 2008 750Li [0.00] 2006 BMW [0.00]	Nothing wrong with being frugal but trading the car now will cost and could put him in a financial hardship. I atleast hope he is with USAA. Going to Iraq soon or in the future from Germany? __________________ Can you say Alooooha? [SIGPIC][/SIGPIC]
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06-09-2006, 05:15 AM	#5
jocamryn Major 145 Rep 1,159 Posts Drives: '23X4 M40i/'24 X2(In Transit) Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: USA, for now iTrader: (0)	I'm in Stuttgart maybe I can take it off of your hands?:rocks:
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06-09-2006, 05:15 AM	#6
ZuerstBMW ¡Viva España! 373 Rep 7,803 Posts Drives: 2023 230i Mineral White Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: Apollo Beach, FL. iTrader: (68)	I would keep the BMW. It is a much better and safe car. Ford sucks in everyway possible. You should have gotten a 1 Series. I would stay away from Ford though. Just my .02 Good luck with your decision. __________________ 23 G42 230i Mineral White Cognac, Aluminum With Mesh Effect Interior Trim MODS Clear Guard, 15% Ceramic Tint, Floating Caps
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06-09-2006, 05:32 AM	#7
jeffersonkim Private 5 Rep 51 Posts Drives: 2006 BMW 325i Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Orange County, California iTrader: (0)	Yeah, USAA's $20,000 2% APR Car loan! WOOT! In terms of future plans. . .I have education covered by the G.I. Bill, and when I get out, I'll have the veterans' plan for 0 down on a mortagage. I was doing some more thinking, and I realized, it'd make more sense for me to wait it out and I'll be able to sell for a higher price back in the states. The depreciation rate for the BMW and more "budget" cars correlate around the same rate not necessarily in percentage, but gross price. Plus, as I drive it more, I may come to appreciate the ride especially when it comes to longer commutes.
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06-09-2006, 05:35 AM	#9
jeffersonkim Private 5 Rep 51 Posts Drives: 2006 BMW 325i Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Orange County, California iTrader: (0)	Oh, and if it wasn't clear before. . . USAA gave me the $20,000 flat out (unsecured), and I had enough from my parents and my savings to pay for the car in cash. . . so basically, I invested the $20,000 loan from USAA because I easily can beat the 2% APR with EmigrantDirect savings or an S&P Index fund with Vanguard.
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06-09-2006, 05:37 AM	#10
LEDZEP Lieutenant General 417 Rep 12,276 Posts Drives: 2009 E70 & 2011 F25 Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Area 51 iTrader: (0) Garage List 2011 X3 35i M Sport [7.62] 2009 X5 M Sport [0.00] 2007 328xi E90 [0.00] 2006 325xiT E91 [0.00]	You should get a Fit. The Fit is go. __________________ I think it is bad luck to be superstitious
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06-09-2006, 05:38 AM	#11
jeffersonkim Private 5 Rep 51 Posts Drives: 2006 BMW 325i Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Orange County, California iTrader: (0)	Fit?
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06-09-2006, 05:45 AM	#12
LEDZEP Lieutenant General 417 Rep 12,276 Posts Drives: 2009 E70 & 2011 F25 Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Area 51 iTrader: (0) Garage List 2011 X3 35i M Sport [7.62] 2009 X5 M Sport [0.00] 2007 328xi E90 [0.00] 2006 325xiT E91 [0.00]	Isn't that what it's called? Some new little car... I think a Toyota. Not sure - someone correct me. Bizzare TV commercials in the States. __________________ I think it is bad luck to be superstitious
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06-09-2006, 07:09 AM	#13
ZuerstBMW ¡Viva España! 373 Rep 7,803 Posts Drives: 2023 230i Mineral White Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: Apollo Beach, FL. iTrader: (68)	The 2007 Honda Fit. Attached Images __________________ 23 G42 230i Mineral White Cognac, Aluminum With Mesh Effect Interior Trim MODS Clear Guard, 15% Ceramic Tint, Floating Caps
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06-09-2006, 07:23 AM	#14
Kamando Captain 56 Rep 617 Posts Drives: - Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: - iTrader: (3)	Military here also... You're in Germany the perfect place to have a bimmer. If zipping up and down the autobahn isn't your thing take a trip, see the sights and find nice twisty roads. Your car will thank you Just remember you have the chance to drive like you would never be able to in the United States and you have the right car to do it with.
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06-09-2006, 08:44 AM	#15
fueledbymetal Lieutenant 129 Rep 579 Posts Drives: 2024 G80 6spd, Cayman GTS 4.0 Join Date: May 2006 Location: Lexington Park, MD iTrader: (0)	Also worth noting is that the European Focus is significantly different than the US Focus, so it may not meet federalization requirements & therefore you may not be able to bring it back with you. The European Focus is is on the 2nd gen platform (shared with the Mazda 3 & Volvo S40) whereas the US Focus is on a modified 1st gen platform. As a result, I don't think the current European Focus has ever been subjuected to US crash or emissions tests, which is why I'm not sure it could be legaly transfered here. Last edited by fueledbymetal; 06-09-2006 at 09:36 AM..
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06-09-2006, 09:34 AM	#17
Collanrf Major 86 Rep 1,125 Posts Drives: BMW 335i, Alpine White M Sport Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: San Diego iTrader: (2) Garage List 2011 BMW 335i [0.00]	I'm in the military too. At least you know where your money is going, young kids tend to waste their money on liberty/party. Participate or try to set up a meet, for sure you'll love your car more you won't even think about letting it go. __________________ /// 2011 E90 335i M SPORT, ALPINE WHITE/// STEPTRONIC /// ZENON HEADLIGHTS/// 35% TINTS ALL AROUND /// 19 INCH BBS LM REPS ///BLACKED OUT ROUNDELS /// BLACK OUT GRILLS/// ACS ROOF SPOILER /// M3 REAR SPOILER /// LTMW INSTALLED (VOLLKOMMEN) M SPORT FRONT LIP /// BMS INTAKE///
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06-09-2006, 10:28 AM	#18
F32Fleet Lieutenant General 3570 Rep 10,351 Posts Drives: 2015 435i Join Date: May 2005 Location: Southeastern US iTrader: (0)	Soundsl like a sound decision. I know what you're feeling and I'm in my early 30's. BMW's are fun to drive no doubt, but sometimes being able to get from A to B is more important than how you're getting there.
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06-09-2006, 10:32 AM	#19
voltron1011 Colonel 119 Rep 2,909 Posts Drives: 2011 135i, FJR-1300 Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: Wiesbaden iTrader: (2)	If you decide to keep the E90, keep it for at least 6 years or more. That way you will really get your money's worth. If you buy a Focus, chances are you will own for about 3 years before it will become boring, unreliable, etc, etc... The focus will also depreciate like a brick, where-as BMW's hold their value much better.
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06-09-2006, 10:38 AM	#20
golfpro Second Lieutenant 24 Rep 208 Posts Drives: 2006 BMW 325i Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: Central New York iTrader: (1)	Im 23, fresh outta college and just bought my 325. The way i looked at it was that I have the money to buy it now because i dont have to pay for a house, i dont have to support kids (and a wife), so i bought the car i wanted now because who knows, i may not be able to afford it down the road...
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06-09-2006, 10:53 AM	#21
hosagod E92-wannabe 2 Rep 136 Posts Drives: 04 330Ci Join Date: Apr 2005 Location: TX iTrader: (0)	Keep the 325i, in the long run it will be the better investment. Not to mention, the aftermarket mods you will be able to do to it in the future that will make it less "luxury" and more "sporty". You're going to miss the BMW as soon as you sit inside the Focus. And don't get me started on Ford...sigh!
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06-09-2006, 10:58 AM	#22
just4kickz boku no namae ha... 336 Rep 11,025 Posts Drives: 2006 BS 330i Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: S. Bay Area, CA + Newark, NJ + ChiCity + True Blue iTrader: (11) Garage List 2006 E90 330i [0.00]	well if your looking at the long run and you live right next to ur job... i guess using a beater car would be more practical... you dont need a good car right now... and i'm sure in a few years you'll find owning a "luxury" car more rewarding.
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