Dealer Offer Comparison
Normalize up to three dealer proposals so discounts, trade-in credits, finance charges, accessories and fees do not hide the real transaction cost.
Compare dealer offers
Normalized deal comparison
| Offer | Net vehicle price | Trade credit | Fees/taxes/add-ons | Finance cost | True modeled cost |
|---|
Why dealer quotes can be difficult to compare
Two dealers may advertise similar vehicle prices while one includes more fees, accessories, finance charges or a different trade-in allowance. A large trade-in number does not necessarily mean the total deal is better if the vehicle price or fees are higher.
Modeled transaction cost = Vehicle price − Discount − Trade credit + Fees/Taxes/Add-ons + Included finance cost.
Normalize what each dealer is actually offering
Use the same vehicle specification and same trade-in assumptions for each quote where possible. Separate mandatory taxes from optional accessories and ask for a written breakdown.
Finance cost needs the same basis
If one dealer's quote uses a promotional APR and another uses a higher-rate loan, enter comparable financing costs or compare the financing independently. Do not hide materially different loan terms inside the transaction price.
Do not confuse headline discount with savings
A large discount can be offset by added products, fees or an inflated trade-in adjustment elsewhere. The total transaction cost is the more useful comparison.
FAQs
Should trade-in value be subtracted?
Yes, when the goal is to compare the buyer's net transaction economics and the entered trade credit is treated as part of the deal.
Can I compare offers for different cars?
The cleanest use is the same vehicle or equivalent specifications. Comparing genuinely different cars becomes a purchase-value decision rather than a dealer-offer normalization.
What if one offer has no financing?
Enter zero finance cost for that offer, provided the comparison basis is otherwise consistent.