I love my 2009 Ford FG Falcon, from its cushy seats to its smooth inline six. I know I should just be enjoying what I have but I’ve now had it for over two years, the longest I’ve owned a car. As it creeps closer and closer to 200,000km on the odometer, I find myself wondering what I’ll get next. All my instincts tell me to try something fresh and new but, the other day, I thought about returning to something familiar. My question to you is: would you buy a newer version of a car you’ve already owned?
As I write this, I’m tossing up between a 2015-17 Hyundai Genesis, an Infiniti Q70, or a 2014+ Lexus IS – don’t worry about remembering those, I’ll probably change my mind countless times over the next year or two.
One thing about my Falcon is that it lacks many things, at least the kind of things I increasingly find myself wanting. Just to name a few: Bluetooth audio streaming, blind-spot monitoring, a sunroof, heated and ventilated/cooled seats, Android Auto, front parking sensors, and a head-up display. No, I don’t need any of those but, well, they’d be nice. Upgrading to a used luxury sedan like those I’ve mentioned would net me most if not all of those. You know what else would? A VF Holden Calais V.
If you’ll recall, I owned a VE Calais V from 2014-16 and I wasn’t a huge fan. That was mostly down to its uncomfortable ride quality, being an early VE Calais with the firmer FE2 suspension tune. The fact it required an expensive repair sealed its fate for me and I off-loaded it. So why on earth would I want a newer version of the same car?
Well, the VF refresh brought with it a much improved, more premium interior. It also brought with it more features, among them a head-up display and blind-spot monitoring, while ride quality had been improved during the VE’s run.
If you’re wondering why I’m not considering a newer Falcon, the final FG X Falcon merely added a new infotainment system and was otherwise largely the same, right down to the steering wheel buttons that don’t light up at night.
If I was feeling really silly, I could get a Calais with the 6.0 V8 (349 hp, 376 ft-lbs) or a VF II series with the 6.2 V8 (408 hp, 420 ft-lbs). I was never a huge fan of the 3.6 anyway, although it was improved since my 2007 model and mated to a superior transmission. With a V8 Calais in my garage, I’d have perhaps the definitive Aussie car and, sadly, one of the last.
And yet, I still find the idea of buying a newer version of a car I already had just a bit… unadventurous. Sure, I’ve had two Falcons but those were two different series and completely different inside and out. Additionally, I went from a sporty model (XR6) with a manual to a luxury model (G6E) with an auto. It’s nice to figure out what you like but, by the same token, buying a Calais would make that a total of four Aussie sedans in a row if you forget about those nine months I had a Subaru. I feel like it’s time for me to expand my automotive horizons, even if Aussie cars are tremendous bang for your buck.
Does the idea of buying a newer version of the same generation of car/truck appeal to you? Have you ever done it?
Every day, my 2007 Accord—my first Honda—pushes me further away from considering another Accord or another Honda product.
But I’m not philosophically opposed to updating; I drove a decades-long string of Valiants and Darts and then Spirits and Acclaims.
Just curious, but what is it about the Accord that you don’t like? The only Accord I’ve owned was a few years ago I bought a 1986 4 door LX with a 5 speed and that was a great little car for how old it was. the manual transmission just felt so good. Of course that car and your car don’t share a single item other than a name.
I’d buy a newer/lower mileage edition of the same car.
(and I have done that– 86 VW GTI, 94/95 Probe GT, 97/00 Grand Prix 3.8)
New version….perhaps 25-35 years ago, when I liked newer versions. With the end of manual transmissions, and the fact that current cars generally are very competent, though boring, and improvements come as the cost of increased complexity, I don’t see much to look forward to in the future.
2012 Tacoma, yes. I just came from a 2002 Tacoma and did seriously consider a 2016 model.
1993 Supra, no thanks.
I think it’s safe to say that in the US, it’s not all that uncommon with certain models.
Personally, I’ve owned four Mustangs at different times, and I’ll probably buy another F-150 (my second) when I replace my Ranger.
Off the top of my head, buying a newer version of the same vehicle seems pretty common with Mustangs, Corvettes, Yukons/Suburbans, Jeep Wranglers and Grand Cherokees, Honda Accords, Toyota Camrys, various Subaru models, and any model of full-sized pickup truck.
Hmmmmmmmm
Chevy Celebrity – never got a 2nd generation
1997 Ford Escort wagon – next generation turned into the Focus
2004 Ford F150 Heritage – if I had to buy a truck right now I’d run out and make a deal on a current gen F150 STX 4×4 extended cab – 2.7 TT V6 please.
2010 Highlander – NOPE, not unless they suddenly make it engaging to drive which with Toyota that possibility is near nil.
2018 Buick Regal TourX – lets see if there’s another generation and what the heck it is based on in the GM arsenal.
I have come close several times, but never duplicated the exact model.
Although there was a break in between, I had a 66 Plymouth Fury III and a 68 Newport Custom. I also had an 85 LeSabre, and 84 Olds 98 and an 89 Cadillac Brougham, so this is probably the closest.
I had two Panthers in a row, but there was a really big difference between the box and the aero versions. And my college roommate had 3 different Dusters back to back.
Current cars? I would buy another of the exact generation of both my Honda Fit and my Sedona. There are several things about later versions that I find a downgrade.
We will consider a third FCA minivan. The two I’ve bought have been the least exciting buying experiences I’ve ever had. But they are just so damn useful. And to be fair, it would be the third completely different generation, which makes things a bit more interesting. But only a bit.
Yup, nothing meets my needs and desires as much as a Chrysler minivan. Had an 06 caravan, loved it, now a 2017 Pacifica, love it. If you pick a car which meets your needs and desires adequately to begin with, why WOULDN’T you pick a newer version when it comes time to replace it?
“If you pick a car which meets your needs and desires adequately to begin with, why WOULDN’T you pick a newer version when it comes time to replace it?”
Well if it’s 1984, it’s because Chrysler has just brought out a minivan which greatly outperforms your intermediate wagon, regardless of the brand.
When I buy a replacement car, I start with a list of attributes and then match it to what’s available in the market. I can certainly see a case where the same car would remain at the top of the list, but that’s coincidence not preference
Went from a 2012 Mini Clubman to a 2015 Mini Hardtop. Close enough, I figure.
Absolutely, if they still made the two cars I had. I’m not brand loyal but I am model loyal!
Yes I would a later Citroen C5 preferrably with the 2.7 twin turbo diesel would be my car of choice if I can find one, the problem being they are really nice cars to drive and owners are reluctant to part with them,
Interesting about your experience with Holden Calais we have an earlier one in our driver swap fleet and 3 standard issue Commodores the Calais is nicely finished inside with slippery leather but the ride is terrible, NZ roadfs are pretty bad rough poorly surfaced and the 17 inch alloy wheels and low profile tyres that thing is furnished with delete any luxury GMH may have fitted, the standard models ride better, none of them have the ride quality of my Citroen or the roadholding ability.
Roadholding is an underappreciated performance piece for many drivers.
It is something I look for in a daily driver.
Even the later 163hp 2.0 HDi is fine.
A colleague owns a late model C5 Tourer with the 163hp 2.0 and a manual.
He recently drove a brand new Peugeot 508 SW with the 180hp 2.0 and an auto.
The C5 outperformed it in every way.
Bah, start saving your NZ pesos, kiwi, and buy a C6 twin-turbo. I don’t know if they sold them in NZ, but if not, they are all about $25K here when they sell (from $100K new), and NZ doesn’t seem to care much what gets imported (and it’s only a brief swim). Sure, it’s a fair chunk of change for a used car, but just look at it! And I’m sure it’d do everything your C5 does but moreso. Best of all, there were only ever about 100 of them imported, and they have absolutely stopped at about that $25K mark, meaning that you’d have every likelihood of using the thing for years and still sell it for at least what you paid.
Go on – you know you want to…
Ive seen a few here Justy usually in black theres one for sale at the dealership I got my C5 from 13K,yeah I’d like one, cars in Aussie are more expensive than here used we have rampant depreciation thanks to the cheap used disposables coming in from Japan, some of it good used cars some of it is absolute junk.
I would. I have a 2014 BMW 5 series that I’m buried in so it will be awhile. The newer version doesn’t look all that different, so I think I could skip the current gen as long as they don’t make the next one as hideous as the e60.
I just did. A 2019 Ford Fiesta replacing a 2014 model that came up second in a “meeting” with a deer.
This time I went for the speedy ST model…as these are very scarce and I got the last white one in Arizona. First time I’ve ever bought the same car twice. And I couldn’t be happier.
An incredible car. No surprise it’s the #1 seller in the UK and a big hit in the rest of Europe. Just a little small for US drivers, but not for me. It’s a sports car with a back seat!
A friend of mine actually has done just this and while I was visiting recently he drove my car and rode in it, he went from a 406 Peugeot to a 407 and now realises he bought the wrong PSA car, so sometimes its not a good idea, just sayin.
I wanted a newer Audi A3, but no hatch, no manual and too expensive. So I looked else where. Would I get a newer Acura Sportwagon? Yes, all I would ask for is AWD.
I had successions of Plymouth Valiants/Dusters and Ford/Mercury Tauri/Sables. But with the current fleet, there are no “new versions.”
I wish there was a new version of my current DD, a 2001 Suzuki Grand Vitara, but alas. So, hopefully it holds together for quite a while longer.
On the other hand, I have owned many previous iterations of full size GM pickups, I currently own two, and I’m sure there are more in my future.
I have an 04 Sienna and would consider a 2016 Sienna though I hear the 2017 and newer Siennas have an odd behaving transmission. It is odd that the newer Siennas have such a skinny eigth seat and I would prefer a key instead of push start.
Yes, I did that twice (well, three times counting the ex’s cars).
My 1983 T-Bird traded for a 1988 T-Bird. We also got the wife an ’88 Turbo Coupe.
The ex’s Turbo Coupe was replaced with a ’94 MN12 T-Bird.
When we split up, I traded the ’88 LX in on a ’97 LX, so technically that was my second MN12 Thunderbird.
I considered trading my 2007 Mustang in on a newer one, but decided to keep it and get a new and more fuel efficient daily driver instead (my 2016 Civic EX-T Coupe).
And as much fun as that Civic is turning out to be, I’d actually consider another one, although I’m not a fan of the blacked out refresh of the 10th generation. Let’s see what Honda does for Generation 11.
I tried once. I loved my Saab 9000CSE and would have gladly traded into a newer one when it finally became impractical to repair it at over 300,000 miles. By that time of course the “new one” was the 9-5, which just wasn’t even close (and out of budget). The trade off was a 2000 9-3SE, a car I quickly grew to loathe once the new car smell wore off.
A Lexus IS is a mighty fun little car though. Just sayin’
Currently I have a red 2005 Jaguar S-Type–it’s beautiful and I get many compliments on it. In 2009, Jaguar came out with the S-Type’s replacement in the line–an ugly car with a front end that looked like an angry warthog. Big disappointment!
On today’s XE and XF sedans, the warthog look has been refined, but it’s far from “beautiful”. Also, interior wood trim seems to be gone now. There’s little relationship between these cars and the Jaguars of yore.
Compare the car below with an S-Type and you’ll see what I mean:
What, you mean your supposed to get rid of the first car before you get its duplicate? (’86-’87)
I don’t know if I’d buy a newer version if it were the same generation, but I see know reason stopping me from buying a newer version of my current car as long as I liked it.
That’s what I like about staying in one brand but changing model. You get a lot of familiar qualities in a different package and slightly different driving experience depending on how drastic the switch in model is.
I loved my 2 Series and that’s why I love my current 4 Series. It possesses all the qualities I loved in my 2 but feels a bit more substantial, has a few performance upgrades such as adaptive M suspension, and a few other goodies such as M Sport line, head up display, and blind spot monitoring.
I am/was a serial VW owner, marrying my wife when she drove a 1983 Jetta, replaced by a 1990 model, then an 8-year break while we drove something more child-friendly. I returned to the fold with a 2004 Passat, which became the kids’ car when I got a 2010 Passat. The older Passat began to require expensive repairs, so it was replaced by a used 2010 Jetta. My daughter totaled that car after six weeks of ownership, and I replaced it with a 2009 model, which actually was a better, lower mileage car. My wife currently drives a 2016 Tiguan, but I’ve had enough of VWs for now. Too many expensive repairs and the current North American lineup has lost much of the European character, so why bother.
’87 VW Golf GL (had enough with repairing at 165k miles), followed by first and only new car, ’96 Jetta (totaled 2006 at 120k), followed by ’02 Jetta (expensive obscure crankshaft sensor repair imminent in 2013 at 115k), followed by ’11 2-door GTI (nothing wrong at 58k but found a good deal on the following…), ’16 GTI (last year of 2-doors; used with 13k in 2018). If VW made or sold Mk VIII GTI’s in 2-doors, I’d probably go for it. Admittedly I’ve drunk VW Kool-Ade, but as a dedicated stick-shifter, I have few options. And each time I’ve gotten my next car, it’s felt like my old one only better. After this one, if VW’s still making sticks, I may have to go back to a Jetta. I just don’t like 4-door hatches aesthetically. Trouble is, I don’t like the new Jetta aesthetically. Oh well, first-world problems.
Well, yes.
Our 2001 Focus ZTS was replaced by a 2013 Focus SE
Our 2007 Caravan (base model) was replaced by a 2015 Grand Caravan SXT
In the case of the Focus I would rather have had a brand new 2001, the newer car has more features but is an inferior vehicle.
Mixed feelings on the Caravan, we enjoy the higher trim level and bigger engine, but quality seems to be lacking compared to the old one. I think I would have rather have had a brand new 2007 Grand Caravan SXT with the 3.8 liter.
This is how I feel. I have had a succession of first generation Avalons, a 1995, a 1996 and now a 1999. I don’t plan on getting rid of it anytime soon. Every subsequent generation has been of falling quality, though (with the exception of the very awkward second generation) they have gotten more and more attractive.
If I could buy a brand new 1995 Avalon, I would in a heartbeat. But not even Toyota makes vehicles that well anymore.
As an owner of a Dodge Magnum wagon, there never was an update to this car. It was only on the market from 2005-mid 2008.
However, I would definitely consider buying a newer version of the platform mates… the Dodge Charger and the Chrysler 300.
Sure, they are often derided for currently being “old platform”, and the bones are the same. But, compared to my 2006 they have newer styling, newer safety features, upgraded 8-speed transmission, nicer interior materials, and that fantastic UConnect system. I’d absolutely buy a newer one if I wanted a newer car.
The whining over the LX being an ‘old platform’ is INCREDIBLY dumb. Those cars are absolutely class leading, and being ‘newer’ doesn’t necessarily equal ‘better’. None of those whiners can make a list of actual problems with those cars or anything they want in a newer version. Build quality could be better, I’ll allow that, but there’s never zero room to improve. LX’s are heavy but they’re big and functional…which is why they continue to be relevant.
The biggest improvements would be the return of the Magnum and at least a 392 upgrade for the 300 again. A styling refresher across the line would be good about now.
I’ve bought several S-10s and Blazers, so yes, I’ve done it. Plan to replace my 2002 Tahoe with a newer one (’07-’13), although it may be a ‘Burb or Avalanche.
I’ve done this. A 2016 Ford Fusion for my wife was passed on to a daughter, and my wife’s replacement is a 2018 Fusion.
Come to think of it, I owned 1973 and ‘76 Cutlass Supreme coupes back to back.
I ask folks a similar question –
“What would you like to see on your current car to make it better?”
For me, this Crown Victoria Sport has only one problem – it is 17 years old. So, I would like for it to have GPS, reverse camera, lane change warning, and be a station wagon.
But yeah – I would buy another in a flash.
I had a chance to spend a few days with a 2020 Camry. It had a lot going for it, but it was an unresponsive old lady car without torque, and about as ugly as an overweight Starbucks barrista covered in piercings and tattoos. What it did have was the new computer crap that made cruising on the expressways very cool. So, that’s what I would like to have on a new 2020 Crown Victoria Sport, or Mercury Marauder – if that could have happened.
Which it will never happen.
Sigh!
“…about as ugly as an overweight Starbucks barrista covered in piercings and tattoos…”
LMAO!!!
2012 gmc acadia yes I would take a new acadia in a heartbeat. 2014 Chevrolet cruze… well that are all done making the sedan and a manual transmission so I guess no. But I would trade it for a Chevrolet bolt. 2015 gmc Sierra I would not. I do not like the new GM trucks thay are but ugly.
I’ve owned 2 Toyota Matrixes and I would love to own a third. I miss mine something fierce. It was just a great car for my needs.
I loved my first Subaru Outback (1995). I later owned an ’03 and an ’05.
Head gasket failures and catalytic converters made it so that I’d not buy another.
I did, 2002 and 2004 Sante Fe, but because I totalled the first one.
However, I would go for a ND Miata if the NA I have gives up the ghost. I would probably go for any Miata, as they are just so fun. I would also consider the 124 so similar to the Miata as to be a fair replacement or substitute.
I won’t get a chance at a new 500, as they are now discontinued, so that one is out.
The funny thing is that if you have a huge budget, you CAN get a brand new old car. For example, they offer a new 1964 Mustang (based on new stamping of the body) with any drivetrain and suspension you wish, along with interior to taste. The problem is price, I understand it ends up being over $100K. They can do the same with any of the bodies Dynacorn is stamping (Mustang, Camaro, Firebird, Challenger, etc) along with a good shop.
Done it, several times.
I started out in a ‘84 Dodge Power Ram then owned 5 progressively newer Jeeps (78 then 81 CJ-7s, 85 Scrambler, ‘95 YJ, ‘00 TJ) then a 05 Ram 1500. In theory ANY generation of Dodge truck or Jeep CJ/Wrangler is something I’d love to own again as long as it’s to my liking.
Currently I have a ‘09 Challenger R/T and absolutely love it. Id definitely buy another, likely I’ll upgrade to a 392 when that time comes but the truth is Id buy another 345 powered LX car of any model…again, if the deal was right and I liked how it was set up.
Yes, I did. After almost ten years with a new 2001 Prius (one of the first off the boat) we traded it for a new 2010. Can’t beat the Prius combination of superior gas mileage, roomy hatchback, reliability and modest price. Plus I think the 2010’s styling is great.
I wouldn’t replace the 2010 with a 2019 though, even though they did make it a little less hideous. Now a hybrid needs to be plugin with meaningful range, say 50 miles. Toyota dropped the ball on that one; Prius Prime’s inched its way up to 25 miles.
Since the Fiat 500e EV became my metro-area wheels we only drive our 2010 Prius when we need the extra room or we’re on a trip. It’s got just 100K miles so we don’t see replacing it anytime soon.
Probably not, regardless of whether I stay in Europe or move back to the US:
85 CRX: could upgrade to a 2nd-gen CRX, but that is unlikely at this point in my life, and I don’t like the Del Sol.
90 Civic hatchback: the 4th generation I had was peak Civic. The newest Civics are good cars, but they are so ugly.
97 Accord wagon: last year for Accord wagons in the US. I’d consider a used Acura TSX wagon in the US or newer Accord wagon in Europe, but probably not my first choice.
96 Avenger coupe: the Stratus coupe that replaced it was compelling with an optional V6 and 6-speed manual, but I don’t think they were very good. More recent successor would be a V6 Challenger, which is also not on my wish list.
12 Mazda5: Wife and I really liked this car, but this was the last generation in the US, and not sure if these will continue in Europe either.
I’ve only had company cars since the Accord and the Mazda5.
I have not done it, but I’m not opposed to the idea of buying a newer version of the same car.
In the 2000s I drove a first generation Saturn S-Series, and I lamented the fact that Saturn no longer made a car like it. I liked my car, but I did not like the Ion that replaced it in Saturn’s lineup. By the time I ultimately replaced it the Saturn brand was no more and I ended up getting a used Corolla to replace it.
When I replaced the Corolla I did a complete 180 and got an ND Miata. I think as I get older I have the desire to try more new things rather than sticking with the old and familiar.
I did. 2004 Impala, 2012 Impala, which I still own and love. Since I retired almost 3 years ago, and due to eye issues with my good eye, the car had 118K on it, and now has just short of 130K.
Wish I could afford a new one, too, before they’re gone.
After four Ford Tauruses, I purchased a new 2008 Hyundai Sonata only because it was a screaming bargain. This car needed no repairs and still looked and felt new after 75,000 miles. With outstanding dealer service, I went with 2011 Sonata that was equally reliable.(albeit with several recalls). Just replaced that one with a 2019 Sonata. Hyundai, I feel, wants to keep me as a customer and not a one shot profit hit. I’m happy. Why change?
Sorry for a double-post, I mistakenly posted this to the linked ‘last of the Aussies’ article.
In answer to the question: Yes and yes – I bought a new Chevrolet SS (VF Commodore) in 2015 (triple black, 6 speed manual) and would have it back in a second. Sadly, divorces are costly.
I’ve also had several E39, E46, and E90 BMW’s in both sedan and Touring forms. My current 2006 330i recently crossed through 170k miles. I’ve had the car since about 105k and it’s given great service even with some occasionally expensive maintenance (rear suspension) along the way.
But I’ve found myself thinking about what I’d replace it with if/when the time comes. What’s most troubling is this car is exactly the way I would have ordered it then, and the configuration is rare: triple black, 6 speed manual, Sport Pack, Cold Weather Pack, Premium Pack, and **no ugly extra-hump nav screen**. Alas, I’m not sure I’ll ever duplicate that one in the used market again. 😥
I actually did it backwards and went from a newer version to an older version
I had a 2005 Buick Lesabre. It had 40,560 miles on the clock when I got it back in 2008. It turned out to be one of the biggest turds I have owned. A few years later I got a 1997 Lesabre(a car from the previous generation) the car was so much better in every way then the 2005.
The closest one to that was having a 2005 Focus(which I loved) and getting a 2012 Fiesta later on. Yes it is a different car model but it felt like my old Focus in driving manners and comfort(except for the Sync system(aka spawn of hell)
I’ve done this quite a few times:
1964 VW Type I (6 years) > 2000 New Beetle TDI (12.5 years, one of my all-time favorite vehicles) > 2013 Beetle Convertible TDi (18 months, won’t buy another modern VW again). Also have a 1962 sunroof and 1963 sedan I plan to finally finish rebuilding after I retire.
1971 VW Type II (8 years) > 2012 VW Routan* (6 years, counted twice since it’s a rebadged T&C).
1971 Chevrolet Vega > 1982 Chevrolet Cavalier (not technically a newer gen, but the J Body was the successor to the H Body).
1998 Dodge Caravan (5 years, totaled) > 1998 Grand Caravan (5 years, gave to son) > 2006 Grand Caravan (1 year, totaled) > 2005 Town & Country (4 years, gave to other son) > 2012 VW Routan* (6 years).
1990 Honda Civic 3-door hatch (6 years) > 2015 Honda Fit (2 years, had to have the SS).
1969 Ford F-100 (42 years in the family) > 1995 Ford F-150 4WD (3 years, rustbucket) > 1999 Ford F-250 Powerstroke 4WD (3 years, replaced with 2015 RAM 2500).
1950 Ford 8N > 2010 New Holland Boomer 8N.
As for our current fleet, my 2017 Chev SS / Holden Commodore is the last year production of any Holden car, so no options there. The wife’s 2018 Buick Regal TourX is unlikely to have a next-gen successor – we’d consider going back to a Chrysler platform minivan again (Pacifica) if needed. I’m hoping the RAM 2500, which was my first-ever new truck purchase, will also be my last truck purchase.
My first Civic was a base 1988 hatchback, then various years up thru a 2016 EX turbo, but now a older 2012 Civic EX; therefore I certainly will and do buy newer (and older) versions of the same car. On the Accord side our first was a 1993, latest a 2019 Accord 2.0L turbo Touring. OTOH, the Touring was traded for a 2003 C5 Corvette 50th Anniversary drop top….+ cash……….:) NO nanny state software in the C5 Vette or my 2012 Civic; definite PLUS’s for me. DFO
I have a 2010 Chrysler T&C, now at 180k. It’s needed one repair since I’ve gotten it (the rear AC condenser) if I don’t count the tune up and the 3 brake jobs it’s had. So we bought a 2016 T&C , and in the last 85k it’s needed absolutely nothing! Well, it’s due for some maintenance, but that shouldn’t count against it… so I think I did OK getting a newer version of an older vehicle.
I’ve had a string of Olds and Buick sedans, so yes.
Also owned NA and NB Miatae.
That’s basically what I did when I traded my 2014 Jetta SportWagen TDI for an even better-equipped 2015 Golf SportWagen TDI SEL. It turned out well.
“Does the idea of buying a newer version of the same generation of car/truck appeal to you?”
No, it doesn’t generally appeal. Your caveat of “same generation” is important, though, as redesigns are sometimes thorough enough to feel like an entirely different car altogether.
The only time I’d consider it is if I chose the wrong trim/equipment group but liked the vehicle otherwise. Even then, the depreciation and transaction costs would almost certainly guarantee that I stand pat.
Actually, I tend to find something I like and stick with it. I have owned a slew of Ford trucks, for example. In half tons I’ve owned something like 8 F150s from 97 to 2014. May continue with a new model shortly. May try a Tundra though. Also four Ford diesels, from a 92 to a 2019 currently. I also have owned a pair of crown vics (but I went backwards on those, 2004 to 94), a pair of Honda accords (2002 and 2014), a pair of civics, a pair of S10s, and I think that’s it.
Also a pair of CJ7s! That’s kind of a love hate thing though. Battered spouse syndrome?
Always enjoy your writing and lovely photography William. Very nicely done!
I drive an Citroen XM and have experienced its predecessor: the CX is nicer and the XM is better. That makes it a difficult choice. I´ve driven a Ford Focus Mk1, 2 and 3 and the Mk 1 is much the best expression of the mid-sized family car. It´s a toss up between the 1 and the 2 because the 2 looked superb and was lovely to drive though less intimate. The 3 is something of a disappointment, far from bad though.
The overall question is what is the difference between newer and older cars. The main one is that the quantifiable factors usually improve and niceness and charm diminish over time.
The Peugeot 604 is a marvelous car and its descendent, the 406 does all the same things with enhanced power, robustness and grip. In that case, I´d have to take the 406 with a leather interior and a respray.
Pug 406s are a really nice drive I had a 98 wagon 7 seater manual with 2.1 TDI, comfortable fast excellent road holding and unbelieveable fuel economy, I got offered a HDI sedan last week extra cheap but its auto and has a trans fault so it stayed where it is, but they are nice to drive I prefer a cloth interior leather is good in work trucks a semi tractor units not in cars but if you want a nice ride and excellent road manners PSA is the place to shop certainly not the German stores
I think I would have been better off replacing my 1985 1/2 Escort w/a newer version instead of getting a 1989 Chrysler LeBaron Turbo Coupe. As for replacing my current 2005 Ford Focus, I heard enough horror stories about the transmission in the newer models to dissuade me from getting another one.
Your remark, “No, I don’t need any of those but, well, they’d be nice” sums it up. Today there’s little motivation to replace same for same. Our 2012 Golf mk VI is running strong at 60k miles, and 8 model years later there isn’t much different in the 2020 to draw me into the dealership.
Yes my current car is a A4 Golf also, it’s predecessor was an A2 (86) GTi (well, I guess a Golf GTi)…and the one before that was a ’78 Scirocco…all of them manual, and even the same platform…I’ve owned no other car since 1981, so “yes”…when I find something I like that works for me I tend to stick with it (for almost 39 years so far). The thing for me is that as I’m getting older, the manual is less practical (I live in a big city where shifting is constant, have had injuries where an automatic would have been nice, and no one else in my family drives standard, so my car isn’t universally usable…but I hang onto it mostly to forestall having to get an automatic, which I’m sure I’ll do one of these days.
My Dad was pretty similar before he passed, he owned 2 Chevy Impalas in a row (2000 and 2006, which my Mother now drives)….before that he had 3 Sables in a row (’89, ’94 (leased)..and ’96). Going farther back he had a ’69 Country Squire Wagon and right after a ’73 Country Sedan Wagon…and his first pair was a ’61 Rambler Wagon then a ’63 (my Dad traded cars pretty often, which is very unlike me….I’m only on my 5th car (in 45 years of driving) whereas if I counted both his cars and the ones he bought for my Mother, we’d be in about the 30’s (albeit over his 60 year driving time). I’ll probably never even get to 10 by the time I pass away (unless something changes drastically).
I will say I never owned or driven a Beetle, despite my longtime VW ownership (my Dad had a ’59 and also drove them in the Army)…so I guess I started with the watercooled generation which of course is all they’ve made pretty much shortly after I started driving (well, I guess the Beetle did last into 1980 in the US).
1993 Audi 80, upgrading to 2000 or 2003 Audi A4 next year.
(Keeping the 80 though)
It depends on the basic goodness of the car. If finances permitted I would gladly buy another Mazda5 since it was very well suited to our needs and unique in the US market, although a Transit Connect is close. I’d also consider another Ford Ranger although I’d go for the 1998-2012 generation generation rather than our 93-97 since the regular cab is longer and the 2WD got front A-arms in place of the Twin I-Beam.
On other hand I never want another Saturn S Series or A1 Jetta and I see no reason to replace a perfectly good Mazda CX-5 with another one when the only additions I’d want are bolt on accessories.
I have the newest model of the “old” Ranger–a 2011 (2012 was a brief fleet-only model year)–and prefer it over the current model b/c the size is much more manageable & you can’t get a Regular Cab anymore. Another factor is that the ’09-’11 came STANDARD with a trailer hitch receiver regardless of model or engine choice; now it’s back to being OPTIONAL even though all models have EcoBoost power! The only 2 big things I would want to add to my existing 4-cylinder truck are 4WD (which could be had with the 4-cylinder up to ’97) & amber rear turn signals (which lasted from ’93 to ’99, although the Mazda versions retained amber through their entire production run). Otherwise I like it just the way it currently is–simple trucks like this just aren’t made anymore.
Every other motor vehicle (as in excluding trailers) I’ve owned/currently own is no longer in production (’96 Aerostar, 2005 Astro). Final-year Aerostars (’97) are undoubtedly rare, & the Astro was retired in ’05, so I could only buy newer versions of both in my wildest dreams.
Yes, I have. 1986 Crown Victoria, 1992 Crown Victoria, 2001 Crown Victoria.
I’ve done it one other time, recently, but I’m not talking about it yet.
Ooh, New conversion van ?
😄
No. And not other Crown Vic, either. I can’t disclose everything. 🙂
Shafer bought a Town Car?!? 🤔😂
Me, too, and me, neither… (c:
This isn’t exactly what was asked in this QOTD, but I’ve recently been pining for another late-edition Fox-platform Mustang LX 5.0 hatchback like the 2.3L I had once owned. But, of course – with the V8 this time.
Not quite the same but after my ’87 ALFA Milano was hit head on and totaled I bought another. Then when I T-Boned a clown who didn’t stop I got a third. Sure loved those cars.
I’ve had several generations of Accords, consecutive Chrysler minivans, and I am looking to supplant my ’03 Avalon with a newer model. In case it ever breaks…
Which it doesn’t…
I always fear that the “magic” won’t be there if I buy a second car of the same model. I know people who’ve done it and been disappointed. The closest I came was a ’76 SWB Tradesman 100 van with a slant 6 one-barrel and three on the tree after having a ’77 LWB Tradesman 200 slant 6 two barrel automatic. I was happy with the second one because the it was closer to my ideal, being a manual.
Let’s see…
Same car? 1980 Mercury Capri RS turbo, 1985 Mercury Capri RS 5.0L and a 1986 Mercury Capri 5.0L Sport Coupe. 1986 and 1987 Yugo GVs. 2001 Pontiac Aztek,
2004 Pontiac Aztek Rally (Orange) and 2004 Pontiac Aztek Rally (Silver).
Same platform? GM Epsilon bodies: 2006 Chevy Malibu Maxx, 2009 Pontiac G6 Sport Sedan of my own, plus children’s 2007 Saturn Aura XR, 2009 Pontiac G6 GT and 2016 Chevy Malibu LS. GM J-bodies: 1997 Chevy Cavalier and 1995 Pontiac Sunfire GT, along with child’s 2004 Pontiac Sunfire SE1. If you count my 2004 Oldsmobile Silhouette, it’s actually a U-body along with my Azteks…
I would love to buy a 2019 Pontiac G6, but alas, no longer possible. I can go for the current Epsilon 2 Malibu, but I’m a bit leery of the 1.5 turbo and the CVT. I would probably go for a 2016 through 2018 Malibu, though.
The older I get, the more I want familiarity and dependability. For some things, I can upgrade my current car(s) with aftermarket accessories, but not quite to the content level of the new cars. OTOH, I’m not all that enamored with all of the new stuff on cars either. And even after having experienced them, quite a few of them I feel I can live without.
But, at 10 years and 150K miles, the ol’ Poncho keeps on truckin’, along with the Oldsmo-minivan, so I will continue to enjoy my motoring in the past into the future.
Geo, I’m not sure I would trust the stop/start feature either. Although it’s pretty seamless, I would be afraid of premature wear on many of the systems that make this.
Not sure. I suppose I could go down to my local Chevrolet/GEO dealer and have a look at the new 2020 Prizm…
Yes. 1993 and 2000 GMT400 series Chevy pickups. 2000 was the last model year for that generation of truck.
I would also replace the Honda Fit with another one.
Yes, after driving it for 4 years we traded our 2010 Kia Soul for a 2015 model, and drove it until this past summer. Great little cars for what we needed at the time. Sold it and bought a Subaru BRZ because I’m old and you only go around once.
Yes, I have owned newer and older versions of the same generation car in the past. The most was the 77-90 GM B-bodies. I owned 5 different 77-90 GM B-bodies, and they went from older to newer and sometimes back to old versions. I really like those cars, and they were cheap and plentiful on the used car market for some time. I would buy another again too, if I found the right one (and I build that second garage). I’d also buy another ’72 Chevelle, and a dentside Ford truck (although Dad actually owned the truck not me).
As for my current daily drivers, if I had to replace both today, I would without hesitation buy a newer version of my Tundra. I would be strongly tempted by a F-150 with a 2.7 EB (those things have great power and awesome fuel fconomy), but I love the simplicity and reliability of my Yota. Plus, as nice a that 2.7 EB is, it’s doesn’t sing like a naturally aspirated V8. Actually, if it wasn’t for rust killing cars, I’d be okay with driving this truck forever.
As for the our Outback, I probably would not replace it with another. It’s been a decent car so far, but I have had a bad taste due to a warranty issue and Subaru’s sub par customer service. Although I still plan on keeping it for a while yet, I will likely look at replacing it with a Rav4 Hybrid when the time comes. I really prefer a wagon over an SUV/CUV, but the new Outback has less cargo room and less fuel economy – two strikes for me. Of all the modern cars we’ve owned, I have been the most satisfied with Toyota. They are boring, but they are well built and pretty bullet proof when it comes to reliability – which is pretty the top of my daily driver requirement list.
Absolutely.
20 years ago I replaced a ’91 Aerostar with a ’93.
My last 3 cars have been a pair of Olds 98s & a Buick LeSabre.
After the demise of my current Ford Escape (not imminent), I will go going offshore, to the east.
Yes, if it’s either a worthwhile upgrade or the original one was very good. I’ve even bought basically the same car again but in a different form factor (sedan to wagon). If you like it, buy it, it can always be sold again.
I would, but those cars aren’t made anymore (Concorde, Intrepid). I am seriously considering a Charger or 300 as a DD once I relieve my 2013 200 of that duty, but I would definitely buy a modern day LH new and off the lot — something I normally don’t do — if FCA suddenly decided to produce it.
Hint hint, if Tesla ever goes through serious enough trouble that they go under, FCA should purchase them. The Model S could very well be a remolded LH, just underpin the great drivetrain that is the 3.6/ZF RWD (an EV LH would be too expensive and just weird) and do some changes to Chryslerify/Dodgify the interior and exterior. Plus, they could take the EV technology and apply it to other cars. The gullwing Model X could be a premium CUV that FCA so desperately needs for their Chrysler division.
Just yesterday I saw an Eagle Tsi (?).when I came out of a donut shop that I frequent. A very basic looking car (no hubcaps). But I have often thought that the LH was a good looking car, the colors they painted them though, made them look like they were made entirely of plastic.
Yes I’ve bought the same vehicle a number of times, sometimes newer, sometimes the same year, and sometimes an older version.
Most recently it was another 2013 C-Max Energi with about 1/2 the miles of the 2013 C-Max that it replaced. The big difference is the Energi is an SEL as they all were in that year with all of the few options you could add to the SEL while the other was a former fleet SE w/o any options at all. My wife loved the old one but by MIL needed a different car and I didn’t like the fact that is was a SE w/o any goodies. Note the first one was purchased because my wife’s previous car was wrecked and this one went cheap at the auction.
I’ve had several;
E-150s and a E-250 79 E250, 79, 82, 87, 09
F-series 50 F1, 79 F250, 83 F350, 06 F250, 02 F150
Panthers, 92 CV, 93 GM, 92 CV, 02 GM, 03 Marauder 300a, 03 CVPI (daughter’s) 05 CVPI, 05 CVPI, 03 Marauder 300b.
Oh I forgot a 1973 Scout II and a 1972 Scout II but technically they aren’t the same model since the 72 is a Travel Top and the 73 is a Cab Top. So one is a pickup and the other a Wagon.
I take your question to be quite narrow, as you (correctly) don’t regard ownership of a BA Falc and then an FG as answering it. I’ve owned strings of model names that are linked – including Falcons – but aren’t actually the same car.
With one exception.
I’d once had a sweet, if fast-decaying, early 1980 Peugeot 505 manual, and thought it was just the knees of the bees. Years later, due to circumstances entirely within my control, I ended up with a super-clean, undecayed seven-years newer 505 injected 3-speed auto. In every way, it was an inferior device, and a mistake. Unresponsive, silly-slow, quite thirsty, a creaky Legoland dashboard so ’80’s it practically had shoulder pads and a worse ride on lower suspension. Its only claim for refuge from the wreckers was that it could not be killed, and to spite the bastard, I DID try. A storm got it in the end – teehee, it didn’t see THAT coming.
So my answer, albeit arising jaundiced from ill-judgement on my part, is a resounding “No”.
They say that the past is another country, and you can never go back.
Having tried it, I can attest that they are right.
Ok its not an upgrade in fact its older than all but one Ive owned but I’m on my 8th series 3 or 3 A,B or C Audax Hillman some were badged differently Ive had a Singer Gazelle Commer Cob several Humber 80s but Ive had the current one seemingly forever it turns 60 by date of first registration/sale in December the day I plan to pay the licence fee so it can drive legally again, so yes Ive already bought the same car again several times when I count them.
Very interesting. I once owned a Minx 3C for a coupe of years because I like its styling so much. Also, like the old-fashioned-ness about it – bench seat in front, sterring column change. Had two friends who both owned a Mk1 Humber Sceptre (I prefereed the Minx). In the end I decided it was not for me as a daily car because I could do with a bit more power. Still, lovely cars and good luck with yours.
My favorite car is the Acura Legend, I’ve owned some ~75 odd cars in the 12 years I’ve been driving and fell in love with a 1993 Legend sedan in 2011. Ten of the cars in the years since have been Legends and RLs of the same and succeeding generations. The 2005 AWD RL is hands down the most sophisticated vehicle I’ve ever driven. My heart holds dear though, the 6 speed 1994 Legend Coupe I foolishly wrecked… I remember thinking I’d found my dream car and just had to keep it safe until I reached retirement someday.
I wouldn’t get another Camry (my first car) though there was nothing really wrong with it, until it swallowed a large puddle.
I would get another Mitsubishi Lancer in a heartbeat though, my 2009 was a fantastic combination of power, economy, handling, and reliability (except the ABS module which is a known issue).
My current 2007 Hyundai Getz has a lot less power, and uses more fuel, but it’s such a lovely overgrown go kart of a thing I will definitely be owning more Getzes (Getzi?)
A newer version of my 2004 Focus ZTS. Very difficult to say if the 2018 Focus 5 spd. with 2.3L engine would be any better than my 2004 version. However, based on the probability that mine has less computerization, I would stick with the 2004 since it is clearly proven itself.
For most of the cars I owned there was no real newer version. Before 2000, I only drove classics.
Citroen 2CV – no newer version. Hillman Imp – no successor. Triumph Herald – its successor was a very different car.
Triumph 2000 Mk2 – its successor for me was a 2000 Mk1 (the other way around) which I still own and like more than its newer version.
I chose a TR4 as a fun car because I preferred it to its newer versions (TR6, TR7), still have it.
After 2000, I have owned a (1991) First Gen Subaru Legacy. Choose a (2001) Third Gen Outback as its successor but I preferred the Legacy.
Now I have a Jaguar X-type for which there is no newer version. Well maybe the XE but that is not available as an Estate.
I have no clue what will be the next car after the X-type. There are not much modern cars I like.
1982 Metro 1.0 to a 1987 Metro 1.3 with 5 doors and the revised interior. Both rusted
1990 Renault 19 1.4GTS to a 1993 Renault 19 RN1.4i – accident induced early change as they say. Different headlights, power steering and fuel injection were the big differences
2001 (Euro) Focus Mk1 1.6LX to 2006 (Euro) Focus Mk2 1.6LX ….
so I guess the answer is yes.
I’ve gone both ways. Bought a 2001 Miata, then a 1995 Miata, then a 2019 Miata. Given that Mazda seems to understand what the Miata is philosophically about, I have no doubt that when it comes time to replace the 2019 I’d be happy with another Miata if it’s still around.
Same for my 2015 3, although I’d want to see how the new “diesel cycle” engine behaves before making a decision (which won’t be anytime yet) about a purchase.
Well, given the vintage I pretty much bought the same car over again – not much changed in five years here. ’94 and ’99. Already knew how to work on it and didn’t need to buy a new shop manual. I bough them used.
I actually like the front end of the older Bonneville. The 92-95 models have an attractive front end. The 96-99 look too Oldsmobile like with that front end
I have owned a 4th, 5th, and 6th generation Honda, so obviously yes…however, would I buy a new Civic? Not necessarily. For me, buying a newer version of the same car comes down to the pleasure I get from owning, modifying, and driving a car.
My desire for what features my next car possesses (?).has stayed the same for about 25 years: cruise control, ABS, a useable trunk, and (hopefully) a decent sound system. Which goes a long way to explaining why my current car is 10 years old.
Newer version of the same car is a bit ambiguous, but I’ll bite. In the case of our migration from a white w/black interior New Beetle 1.8T to a similar colors Golf VII with the updated version of the same powertrain, we came pretty close. Although some may consider these very different cars culturally, the Golf is a cheaper and more practical version of the Beetle, not to mention hugely improved, which was the transition we wanted.
A few other notes. Unlike Sam who commented above, I’d seriously consider moving from my 2016 Tacoma to a 2012 (2nd gen) Tacoma. Functionally very similar, but “lower tech” and perhaps more satisfying and practical to own for a long time than the more refined and economical 3rd gen Tacoma. If we had a greater need for an AWD car, I’d consider a Subaru Crosstrek or Outback, but ironically probably wouldn’t consider a new Forester, despite owning one for 10 years. Come to think of it, I’d consider the AWD Prius, and we did own a FWD Prius for 100K miles as well. Also briefly considered in the past, I had been intrigued by the Monaro GTO, perhaps a spiritual successor to my ‘81 TransAm, as well as the 100 Series Land Cruiser, years after we sold our 80 Series. But those were brief infatuations.
I have done it backwards
I went from a 2005 Lesabre(big turd) to a 1997 Lesabre(a great car)
I also went from a 2008 Taurus to a 2006 Taurus to a 2003 Sable
I had the opposite affect when it comes to LeSabres. The 97 I had came with a transmission shudder, handled like the Queen Mary and the dash was terrible. The 3800 was also rather noisy.
The 2000 redesign was a whole different car and felt so much more solid, handled light years better, still had a beautiful ride, the 3800 was noticeably quieter and it even got better mileage despite being a few LBS heavier. The only issue I ever had with the 2000 was one rear window regulator that took less that a half hour to replace. The rest of the car was bulletproof and dead reliable with well over 100k miles on the clock.
Several times:
2004 Focus when my 2000 model got rear-ended.
1992 Jaguar XJ8 and 2006 XJ8.
2003, 2010 and current 2016 Mustang convertibles.
Already done it: between 1976 and 2005 I was smitten with the Mercedes coupe, acquiring in succession a 1974 280C, a 1983 300CD, a 1991 300CE, and a 1999 320CLK. Wouldn’t do it again, though, spent a fortune on these indulgences.
I would, however, absolutely buy another Thunderbird, although my current 2003 is still going strong with still only 17K miles on it. But if a new version with an automatic convertible hard top came out, I’d be first in line!
I had a ’73 AMC Hornet hatchback for a few years in college; it got totaled in an accident. After a handful of cheap drives (Pontiac Lemans, GMC van, Ford Pinto), a few years later I bought another ’73 Hornet hatchback that lasted a few years with me and then my brother.
Of the new cars I’ve bought, I’d get another Isuzu Trooper if they had been updated and modernized. I really love my ’01 LS; most comfortable seats and I like its just-right proportions – roomy, but not too long or wide.
I already have:
Old car
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/640x480q90/910/qrsyQx.jpg
New Car:
Had a 2005 Ford Escape with V6. Put 220k miles and enjoyed each mile. Only gave up because the tin worm was progressing rapidly (NY state road salt) and A/C gave out just before I returned to the Deep South to retire.
Replaced with 2012 Escape with V6. Interior is a case study in hard plastic, electric steering has no feedback at all, transmission has become iffy at 117k miles. Ford took the fun out of the vehicle to appeal to a broader mass market.
Not too excited about the latest edition Escape that looks like a guppy.
A new Camry to replace my 2007? No way. The current generation of Toyota/Lexus are way too butt ugly.
I’d replace 2003 Park Avenue with a new one if they were still made.
I’m on my fourth Impala and loving it very much. Was looking forward to a mid cycle refresh that was supposed to happen for 2020 but GM decided to abandon most of it’s sedan segment like Ford and Chrysler so that is out of the question. Seriously considering a Regal hatch or wagon if they are still making them for my next ride but we will see.