What a funny thread...
I'm in a similar boat. Here's my 0.02 on the scenario:
-Being that the 2014 models are due out in a matter of months, it's absurd to NOT wait. What are you, 12? More money to save up for a larger down payment, more time to make up your mind, more time to buy aftermarket parts on potential group deal discount opportunities, etc. etc. etc. Many people have followed the car for 5+ years, some pulled the trigger right away, some pulled between then and now, and some are pulling it as you read this. If you're ASKING whether you should do it or not, you can definitely wait another 4 months. Or you're an impulsive person that needs e-support for your irrational, self-righteous way of life?
-Newer (i.e. better; this is somewhat arguable but trends (and common sense) are in its favor) standard features + possibility of unknown amenities. There's only one thing this forum as shown to know about the 2014 models, and that's something Scion released in a mass press junket. I'm not saying there'll be crazy revisions for 2014, but I'm not saying there won't. Simply: I don't know. And so far no one here has provided any factual evidence to support their opinions, either. So.. you have a couple of months to wait and everything to gain.. again, what are you, 12?
-Resale value and possibility of inventory clearance deal. I don't care what folks say, having the newer year WILL help you in residual value later on down the line [and to all the people saying they'll keep the car forever.. HAHAHA
. How many folks kept their original AE86? Their original MR2? Their original Honda S2000? Their original x,y,z reasonably priced sport(y) car]. Mileage plays a factor, yes, but that's introducing a newer variable and not pertinent to this discussion. Apples for apples, 2014 > value than 2013. Personally, I don't believe you'll get enough % off a 2013 model to warrant the residual (reversion?) difference between the two models, Scion's pure pricing seems pretty hard-lined and the cars are moving decently*. On the other hand, if you are willing to deal with the hassle (how much money is your time worth?) you can likely get a GOOD deal on a Subaru BRZ Premium at or less than invoice cost*. I've scoured truecar and see Premium's going for $1k less than an FRS at market value. Factor in expenses (fuel, plane ticket, hotel) and you'd still come out ahead with a higher spec car and fun road trip under you belt. But again, that depends on how much your time is worth. If I'm earning $300/hr, I wouldn't consider it. If I'm at $15/hr, sure.
*Demographic dependent
Folks mentioned quality updates and revisions, so I won't go into that. Yes, they make changes in a rolling manner - no manufacture waits for the next model year to implement fixes. That's a poor business practice and will cost more in the long run. For profit companies don't like to lose money.
Why would you buy a 2013 model?
-You've finally saved up enough to "afford" payments. I'm not knocking on the younger and/or less financially 'set' folks on the board, hey, I applaud your commitment to the culture and your pride in being a gear head. But no financially savvy person buys, right now, on a whim when the newer model year is mere months away and there's no economic incentive to take a 2013. Disclaimer: I'm not saying you aren't successful but damned be it if didn't make a questionable decision.
-Emotional. This ties in with the above. Sure. You WANT it now. In the end it's just a car, however. If your happiness is tied to an external object, you should take inventory of what/who is important to your life and figure out what happiness means to you. Objects are transient phenomena, learn about the nonsubstantiality of life and find unshakable happiness :happy0180:. inb4 driving 'soul'
-You need a car, NOW. If your situation forces you to acquire a set of wheels to retain your quality of life - and you want an FR-S - then by all means, get a 2013 and be happy. It's a necessary purchase, in this case.