Lease vs Buy Decision Tool
Compare the modeled cost of leasing with purchasing over the period you actually expect to use the vehicle. Enter the real quote details rather than relying on generic lease assumptions.
Compare lease and purchase
Ownership comparison
Lease
Buy
How the comparison works
The lease side totals upfront costs, scheduled lease payments and stated end-of-term costs. The buy side calculates the purchase loan payment and counts the down payment, loan interest and entered ownership costs, then subtracts the estimated vehicle value at the end of the comparison period because that asset remains yours.
Net buy cost = Down payment + Loan payments + Ownership costs − Ending vehicle value.
Lease cost = Upfront lease costs + Lease payments + End/disposition costs.
Why the comparison period matters
Lease and purchase contracts may have different durations. For a clean comparison, choose a period that matches the lease term or a practical ownership horizon and make sure the ending value assumption reflects the same date.
Residual value is not guaranteed here
The purchase-side ending value is your estimate. Actual resale depends on mileage, condition, demand, market supply and many other factors.
Mileage and wear
Lease charges for excess mileage or wear can materially change the economics when they apply. Enter expected end costs rather than assuming they are zero.
FAQs
Does this include maintenance?
Only if you enter it in the purchase ownership-cost field or incorporate relevant costs into the lease assumptions.
Can a lease be cheaper even if I never own the car?
Yes, depending on the lease price and assumptions. The comparison measures modeled economic cost over the selected period, not ownership status alone.
Should taxes be included?
Yes, where they are material and known. Put them into the applicable quote components rather than guessing.