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I was debating new vs used before I bought a new 86 last year, guess I'll throw my
thoughts on it into the mix:
Compare how long it will take to pay off the difference between new vs used and how long it will take you to put that many miles on the used car.
At least in my area, a used FR-S or BRZ with under 50k on it was still a minimum of ~17k, vs a new one at ~25k. A used car with 30k on it has to me, 2-3 years of miles on it. Can 1 year of saving cover the difference between new and used? If so, buy new, because you're getting 1-2 'free' years of saving (since the used car would theoretically last 2-3 less years and thus need replaced sooner, and thus give you a new car payment sooner).
It's not the initial price difference that really matters, it's how much the car will cost you overall, and that includes how long it will last before buying your next car. A used car has a theoretically shorter lifespan than a new one (well, excepting a 'used' car with like 5k on it, but at that point, may as well buy new). And that's all before considering the minor improvements in the 17s and 18s and actually having a chance to buy brand-new.
As for Miata vs FR-S, I'd say buy the Miata if you don't mind the price difference, can live with a convertible all year long, or have another car. Miatas 'feel' faster and have a better interior, they're just less practical. Personally I don't like the RF, it looks good but the complicated folding roof just adds unnecessary weight. Had I the funds it would be cool to have one and have the roof welded in place and the folding stuff removed, though.
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