New Model American vs Older Model Japanese for under $10,000?

Question

Have American cars gotten any better? I can buy one of several 2005 Ford Taurus SEL for $ 9985 with around 21,000 miles. I was originally looking for a Camry or Accord. But for $10,000 I can only find 1996 to 2000 with over 80,000 miles on them. So the question: Is an almost brand new Taurus with new car smell, perfect interior and factory warranty going to be more reliable than a 8 year old Japanese car with worn seat, dirty carpets and used engine?.

The Car will be used for short driving. The Taurus gets about 20 city 27 hwy. For a family of five.

Answer 1

American cars have been getting better, and are now generally on par with Japanese, but I don't know anything specifically about a 2005 Taurus.

Answer 2

I would go with the Ford Taurus. As you can see, the re-sale value is atrocious, but if you plan on keeping the car for a while it won't matter to you. The Taurus is/was around for a long time and is an old, stable platform. If you ever do need repairs, there is no shortage of parts. I consider it a much better value than an 8 year old Accord/Camry, despite the myth that those cars "never break".

Answer 3

There are a few things to consider
1) how long do you intend to own the car?
2) how much driving do you do?

the Taurus is a bigger car and drinks more gas(petrol) it may be an issue if you drive alot in the city, but its a great highway cruiser. it is also more spacious. If interior room is important the Ford is for you. Also resale values for the Taurus will fall quickly.

The Camry or Accord - use less gas(petrol), resale prices are very steady, reliable, insurance will be less for an older car too.

Answer 4

Take the American cars. The old Japanese cars will have to many miles on them. If you get an American car stick with GM cars, like Chevy! Or you can go with Ford too, it is a good company.