Dear Patty,
I own (outright) a 2003 Ford Windstar with about 50,000 miles on it. My uncle wants to downsize his vehicle and give me outright his Toyota Sienna 2005 van with 80,000 miles on it. The major drawback to my van is the back seat weighs a ton and I am a single mom. It is practically impossible for my 9 year old daughter and I to load and unload the back seat. The Siennas back seat folds down into the van.
What is better a newer car (Sienna) or a car with fewer miles (Windstar)?
thanks!
Answers from the Automotive Experts
The mileage on the 2005 almost offsets the two year difference in age. However the book value of the Toyota might be higher. If you intend to keep the preferred vehicle for a long time, you should choose the one that most suits your needs. If your Ford has a good service record, and it suits your needs then keep it. If the Toyota has a better service record and you feel you can offset the weight of the seat then change.
You are the only one who can truly answer this question because ultimately you are the one who will be faced with the seat issue. If you frequently put the 3rd seat down that might be the deciding issue.
Hi Lisa,
I would vote for the Sienna. It*s a great product and I think one of the best vans made today.
I would invite you to go online and compare the two www.jdpower.com/autos/usedratings.asp and go to www.epinions.com to see what folks who own these vehicles have to say about them.
All My Best,
Amy Mattinat