The Myth of "Safe" Ownership
"I own the car; nobody can take it away from me." That's the strongest argument for buying cash. And emotionally, it's completely understandable. But from a purely economic perspective, you are swapping cash (an asset that can work for you) for a car (a consumer good that loses value). Beside the opportunity costs, there are real risks that are often forgotten.
1. The Cluster Risk
When you put €40,000 or €60,000 into a single object, you are taking a bet. You are betting that this object will hold its value reasonably well. Unlike leasing, where the residual value risk lies with the bank, when buying, you alone bear the full risk. What happens if politics ban diesel? Or if EVs suddenly become 30% cheaper (like Tesla in 2023)? Your "cluster" melts away – and you can't do anything about it.
2. Warranty Ends: Your Risk Increases Exponentially
Many manufacturers now offer 3, 5, or even 7 years of warranty. However, typically German premium brands are often stingy (2 years). While the leasing customer often returns the car exactly then, for the buyer, the trembling begins. Modern cars are rolling computers. A defective control unit, a matrix LED headlight, or problems with the high-voltage battery can instantly cost thousands of euros. Without an extended warranty (which also costs money), every workshop visit becomes a financial risk.
3. The Selling Stress
Leasing return is – despite all horror stories – a defined process. Selling a used car privately is often a nightmare:
- "What is last price?" calls
- Strangers wanting test drives
- Liability issues in private sales
- The uncertainty of when and if you get the money
Alternatively, you trade the car in at the dealer – and immediately accept 15-20% less than market value because the dealer needs to make a profit too.
Conclusion:
Only buy a car if you want to "drive it to the ground" (10+ years). If you want a new model every 3-4 years, buying is usually the riskiest and most expensive option – even if it feels different.
Calculate with a Cool Head
Compare leasing and buying with real values – including depreciation and interest disadvantage.