Lease vs Buy Car ComparisonAutomotive & Vehicles

Car Lease vs Buy Financial Comparison Calculator (3-Year Net Cost)

Compare the true net financial cost of leasing a vehicle vs purchasing it with an auto loan over a 3-year timeline, factoring in down payments, monthly cash flows, and built-in vehicle resale equity.

Calculated Result

Total 3-Year Cost to Lease

16,180lease cost

Calculator Inputs

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Total 3-Year Cost to Lease

16,180lease cost

Net 3-Year Cost to Buy (After Resale Equity)

19,900 net cost

Estimated Car Equity Retained at 3 Years

4,900 equity

Financial Cost Difference Between Options

3,720 difference

3-Year Financial Comparison: Total Lease Outlay vs Net Ownership Cost

3-Yr Lease Cost
16,180 cost(45%)
3-Yr Net Buy Cost
19,900 cost(55%)

Standard automotive financial modeling comparison. Local sales tax rules on lease payments vary by state and jurisdiction.

This calculator is designed for educational and informational purposes based on publicly declared statutory frameworks. The outputs do not constitute binding financial, tax, or legal advice. We assume no liability for decisions made based on these estimates. Always verify with the relevant official authorities or a certified professional advisor.

Calculation Methodology

Total Lease Cost = Down Payment & Due at Signing + (Monthly Lease Payment * 36). Total Buy Payments = Loan Down Payment + (Monthly Loan Payment * 36). Resale Equity = Resale Market Value - Remaining Loan Balance. Net Cost to Buy = Total Buy Payments - Resale Equity.

Frequently Asked Questions

You build zero ownership equity; at the end of the 36-month lease term, you return the keys and have nothing of value to sell or trade in.

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