Trying to finance a new car can be like maneuvering through an obstacle course. You can get stuck trying to figure out if it's better to get a loan or take out a lease.

The Web has countless online calculators - all offering to help consumers make their car loan or lease decision.

"Online calculators can be great, but they may not tell you the whole picture," said Tobie Stanger of Consumer Reports' Money Advisor. "For example, they may not capture the financial data like sales tax, insurance costs, or acquisition fees."

Consumer Reports Money Adviser - using the most common financing options - calculated the difference between taking out a five-year loan versus leasing a vehicle for five years. Factored in was getting a new lease after three years.

The first comparison was on the 2008 Honda Accord EX. It sells for $24,495 and can be leased for $239 a month. Money Adviser calculates leasing it costs almost $4,600 more than if you'd purchased it.

"And that calculation doesn't even include the end-of-lease costs," said Stanger, "which can include excess mileage and wear-and-tear charges."

Vehicle number two: the 2008 Lexus ES 350. It sells for $38,405 and can be leased for $429 a month. Money Adviser calculations show leasing costs $9,245 more over a five-year period.

"Monthly lease payments have dropped dramatically in the last five years, some 44 percent, so they can seem really attractive." said Stanger. "But that doesn't necessarily mean you're getting a better deal."

So for a smoother financial ride, buying instead of leasing will put you on track for savings.

(Copyright © 2008 Consumers Union of U.S., Inc. All Rights Reserved.)

Email To A Friend