Will an 08 Focus S last over 200K like the 07 Saturn Ion 3 , warranties r exactly the same. Which is better

Question

I am torn between these two cars. I know Saturn is know for longevity. Payments are exactly the same. The Saturn Ion 3 has 27k miles on it and the Focus S is brand new. Which will last longer?

Answer 1

All things being equal (meaning if you drive them the same way and perform all scheduled maintenance as specified in the owner's manuals), I'd guess that the Focus will last "longer" simply because it is a year newer and has 27K less miles on it.

Modern cars are engineered with a target lifespan of at least 150K miles.  Both cars should give you years of relatively trouble free service as long as you maintain them properly and don't drive them like you stole them etc.  

Keep in mind that while Saturns have been known to last a long time, newer Fords will also last a long time - I've got a 2001 Focus that is right at 150K mi and so far it's been the most reliable car I've ever owned and I've owned a variety of domestic and foreign cars over the years.

For people with a history with bad Fords from the 80's and 90's - the motor in the '08 Focus is a Mazda design, not a "Ford" design....although my '01 has a "Ford" 4-cyl and has been virtually bulletproof too.

Answer 2

The saturn will last a long time. Our '93 SC-1 has over 200K on it now. I have had to do almost no upkeep on this car, other than oil and filters. The focus has a nickname around here, it is called the Ford F@ckus.

Answer 3

If payments are exactly the same, obviously get the Focus.  Its a new car, with nice technology inside of it with awesome MPG.  The only thing that should deter you from getting the saturn is insurance.  But I dont see any real difference since its only 1 year.

Get the new Focus....plus YOU are the first owner and know how the car will be treated.  You can never know on a used car how they drove it.

PS: For an extra $800, I would upgrade to the SE.  You get power windows, locks, mirrors, remote entry.

Good Luck!