Free Total Car Ownership Cost calculator with clear step-by-step results.
Depreciation is usually the largest single cost of running a car and the one drivers never see on a statement. Adding it to fuel, insurance, servicing and taxes over the whole ownership period gives the all-in cost per kilometre, which is the only figure that makes vehicle choices comparable.
Depreciation
Depreciation = purchase price - expected resale value
Cost per kilometre
Per km = total cost of ownership / (annual distance x years)
A car losing $16,000 over five years costs $3,200 a year before it moves - typically more than fuel and insurance combined for an average driver.
Yes if you borrowed. Add total interest to the purchase price, or model it separately, otherwise a financed car looks cheaper than a cash purchase.