Leasing vs Buying a $40,000 Car over 3 Years: $35,743 vs $28,632
Leasing vs buying a $40,000 car over 3 years: buying costs $35,743, leasing $28,632. See which option saves more. Free lease vs buy car calculator.
Frequently asked questions
Is it better to lease or buy a car?
Leasing has lower monthly payments and lets you drive a newer car, but you own nothing at the end. Buying costs more monthly but builds equity you keep. Leasing tends to favor those who replace cars often; buying favors those who keep them.
What is residual value in a lease?
The residual value is the car's estimated worth at the end of the lease. Your payments cover the difference between the price and this residual, plus interest. A higher residual means lower monthly payments.
What happens if I exceed the mileage limit on a lease?
Most leases cap annual mileage, and exceeding it triggers per-mile fees at lease end. If you drive a lot, buying often works out cheaper, since you avoid these charges and keep the car's remaining value.