Financial Planning Tool

Buy or Lease Car Calculator

Vehicle & Shared Details

Vehicle Price $35,000

Down Payment $5,000

Sales Tax Rate 8%

Investment Return 7%

Opportunity cost rate on upfront cash

Lease Details

Monthly Lease Payment $450

Lease Term 36 mo

24 mo 60 mo

Due at Signing $2,000

Disposition Fee $350

Miles / Year 12,000

Overage Cost / Mile $0.25

Purchase Details

Loan Term 60 mo

24 mo 84 mo

Interest Rate 6.5%

Est. Resale Value $18,000

Annual Maintenance $800

Lease vs. Buy Summary

Lease

Total Cost (incl. tax)

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Monthly Payment + Tax

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Due at Signing

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Tax on Payments

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Opportunity Cost

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End of Term

Return car

Buy

Net Cost (after resale)

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Monthly Payment

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Upfront (down + tax)

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Sales Tax Paid

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Opportunity Cost

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Estimated Resale

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Total Cost Comparison (incl. tax & opportunity cost)

Lease total cost Buy net cost

Year	Lease Paid	Lease Total	Buy Paid	Buy Balance

Disclosures

This calculator is for illustrative purposes only and does not constitute financial or legal advice. Results are hypothetical estimates. Sales tax treatment varies by state — in most states, lease tax applies to monthly payments only, while purchase tax applies to the full vehicle price. Opportunity cost reflects the potential growth of upfront cash if invested at the specified rate instead. Taxes, insurance, registration fees, and actual depreciation may vary significantly. Consult a qualified financial advisor before making vehicle financing decisions.