New 2006 Corolla vs. Used 2005 Camry

[thinkharder]

Hi Guys,

I'm looking to make an informed and wise decision. I'm looking at either to get a brand new 2006 Corolla or a Used 2005 Camry. Here in Ontario, we only need to pay 7% tax on Used Cars while for New Cars, we have to pay 15% tax.

The Camry that I'm looking at is a 2005 Camry LE Automatic 4 cyl with 38,518 km. It's priced at $20,987.
The Corolla that I'm looking at is a 2006 Corolla CE with Package C. It's priced at $19760.

Price Comparision: Camry = $22456
Corolla = $22724

I don't mind fuel economy for either car, but long-term reliability, space etc. This car will be used for a family of four (adults).

Thanks.

[The General]

There are only a couple of things to figure out.

1- Do you need the extra space?

2- When was the Camry put into service? What is left of the warranty? Does it bother you?

Both are great cars, basically one the larger version of the other.

[jww]

I couldn't imagine the Corolla as a family car for 4 adults. It's simply too small imo. The used Camry is not only larger inside, but also has a bigger trunk - which I would think you would need if you are carting 4 adults on any kind of trip where luggage space is a requirement.

Unless of course you have a roof-rack and box and intend to use it with the Corolla.

jww

[thinkharder]

Update: I went to the dealership to look at the cars. Get this, they're all rentals with various defects on them (rear bumper had a crash, all rims are scratched, etc).

I'm gonna look at getting the 2006 Toyota Corolla now. I negotiated for about $200 over invoice price, but the dealership is charging a $299 admin package fee. Is this acceptable?

Thanks.

[jww]

Update: I went to the dealership to look at the cars. Get this, they're all rentals with various defects on them (rear bumper had a crash, all rims are scratched, etc).
Typical, that.

I'm gonna look at getting the 2006 Toyota Corolla now. I negotiated for about $200 over invoice price, but the dealership is charging a $299 admin package fee. Is this acceptable?

Thanks.
Again - typical. You can argue that one though - "Like, why should I be paying for your admin staff to answer the phones, or your sales people for filling out bills of sales - isn't that what your Sales and General Admin costs is all about?"

They may also try to tell you that the admin gives you a 'free' police tracing system. So my response when we bought the 06 Sonata 2 weeks ago was - 'It it's free, then I am not going to pay for it am I?' My deal included all the 'extras' that dealers like to hit you with.

jww

[The General]

I negotiated for about $200 over invoice price, but the dealership is charging a $299 admin package fee. Is this acceptable?

If you really managed to negotiate $200 over cost (which is incredible), consider that you are really paying $500 over cost which is more in line with a normal markup for this car.