Recently, I’ve been facing a tough car decision. My trusty Scion tC, a car I’ve genuinely loved since purchasing it with 60,000 miles on the clock (now nearing 69,000), has developed an engine knock. Let’s be honest, it’s likely due to my own lapse in oil maintenance when driving it a bit harder than I should. For a while, life threw some curveballs, and being car-less was a long chapter. Getting the Scion tC was a real high point, offering pure driving joy. Now, it’s sadly just sitting there.
The reality of dealing with used cars, even acknowledging my role in the engine issue, has me seriously contemplating a fresh start. This brings me to the 2020 Toyota Gt86. I understand it’s considered the successor to the Scion tC in spirit, and the idea of a brand new car is increasingly appealing.
Repairing my Scion tC is an option. Local shops offer engine replacements with used Japanese motors boasting around 60,000 miles for about $4,200 total. However, I’ve managed to save more than double that amount, making a brand new car a tangible possibility. While I just invested in new tires for the Scion, and could get around $800 from a junkyard, the thought of putting nearly the original purchase price into another used engine, potentially with similar future issues, gives me pause.
During a test drive of the 2020 Toyota GT86, I was genuinely impressed. The specs indicate more horsepower than my Scion tC, which I already felt was quick. While the torque seems relatively lower on paper, the test drive experience was exhilarating. Merging onto the interstate, I was surprised by how effortlessly and quickly I reached 75 mph without even realizing it. It was a truly engaging drive.
Financially, things are looking up. A recent career promotion has boosted my income, making a new car feel within reach. Working in a stable state job adds to the confidence in taking on a new car payment.
So, the question is, does it make sense to invest in repairing an older car when the allure of a brand new 2020 Toyota GT86 is so strong? The test drive certainly left a lasting impression, and the peace of mind of a new vehicle is hard to ignore.
