<< A classic example of the irrationality of car economics. Clearly the OP cares greatly about m.p.g to the nearest one mile per gallon. If the 35mpg car depreciates at £1000 a year but the 40mpg car depreciates at £1500 a year, the latter is better for the average low mileage driver. >>
And that is an equally classic example of trying to balance the reasons for buying a vehicle: the usual way is to convert every factor to money terms, ignoring the importance of pollution, consumption of resources, etc. Probably like many of us, I try to minimise consumption by sensible driving, and minimise cost by using the cheaper filling stations. But I don't try to integrate those minor savings into the arguments for buying any particular vehicle.
The OP cares only enough about the MPG in that he doesn't want worse. The OP has a bus pass that he uses to go into and out of town. The primary reason for changing the Venga was a total fuel system failure. (ok under warranty) Then, as it was recovered to The main dealer no courtesy car available. Then, SWMBO is on call sometimes and I would not have her walk through darkened streets in the early hours, then in normal hours the local buses are really boneshakers on the local roads and SWMBO has a spinal lesion which does not stop her working, but causes a certain amount of aches and pains.
So there was a real need for transport with comfortable supportive seats, which from test driving i liked, and the price of the car was good. Add to that, it was immediately available in a colour and body style hat were acceptable, then those were some of the reasons/justifications for getting that paricular car.
Other reasons, Good local dealer, acceptable servicing costs. "minor savings don't come into it as reasons.
Every one of us is an individual, and most of us have different tastes.
Those who never service cars/do oil changes, drive with 30 year old tyres and 10 year old brake fluid, their choice. Those who never change cars, same, those who change every year, again Their Choice. They like Audis. ok, BMW, ok. Lexus. Ok.
Happy motoring to all.
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