Wife Woes. She thinks it's hideous.

Welcome aboard. A happy wife, a happy life. You might layout the numbers for both to see and that might help in the decision. Goooood luck!

 

Those "cute used BMW or Benz for less money" will likely be a money pit as neither are really known for the reliability and low maintenance costs.

I personally would steer clear of salvage cars. I'd also steer clear of Gen 1 Priuses (prior to model year 04).

How about a Prius c since cash is tight? What other cars does she consider "cute"? Would cars like a Mini Cooper, Fiat 500 or (gasp) a Yaris be considered "cute"?

How about a used Camry Hybrid? The previous gens (pre-model year '12) are a big step down from the current gen, but I'd imagine are way cheaper a current gen? If considering one of that vintage, how about a used Altima Hybrid or a Ford Fusion Hybrid?

 

Maybe this will help convince her. Round trip commute MPGs. No tricks, just driving in 70 F weather. From the 36 MPH average, you can see this really is mixed highway / city driving, not just highway. The MPGs on this car are phenomenal. First 5 minutes were climbing steep freeway grade plus warming up.

 

You live in California. The Prius is the BMW there. Show her some pictures of the many celebrities that drive them and she should be convinced if a car is more about status than practicality. My other half wasn't for the Prius, and to a big extent still isn't. But, the Prius is a lot more affordable to drive. Who doesn't want to save money? If your credit is bad and you can't afford financing or get approved for a lease, I think a practical car that will be reliable is a lot better than any BMW that may come with its share of problems. That extra money you save can go towards other things.

 

BMW is a money pit. Maintenance and repairs will deplete your bank account. Make her aware of that. Tune up $1,200, oil change $150, brakes $300 per wheel, new run flat tires $1,200, etc.

Let her know it is a rebuilding period of your life as you restore common sense and practicality.

I traded in a BMW for a new Prius. The $ I saved per month on gas is spent on a vacation to Maui this summer.

Tread lightly with her and good luck.

Scion has some nice cars that are priced OK, may want to check it out.

 

If I had to choose between a car and my wife, my wife would win. YMMV

 

I can vouch for what everyone is saying about Mercedes and BMW. I have a C300 and just got rid of the 328i. Just way too much added cost to keep them! Now if only I can convince my spouse not to sell the C300 to get a CLA45! I love my paid-for Prius and maintenance cost is very low.


iPad ? HD

 

Compromise on a Avalon Hybrid?

 

You're going about this all wrong. You're trying to convince HER why to the buy the Prius. She should be convincing YOU why a BMW or Mercedes should be your next car. Tell her to lay out the financials on how that would be a sound financial decision. If you can't come to an agreement, then let her know the only option is keep your Regal and let the money stay in the bank!

 

Tread lightly, h-ll knows no scorn as a angry wife.

 

No chance! My spouse is all about status and only wants luxury vehicles. I learned a long time ago it was a loosing battle so I don't argue anymore ;-)


iPad ? HD

 

Also, OP should go grab the a Consumer Reports auto buying guide from their local newsstand and lookup the reliability of the Prius vs. the "cute used BMW or Benz".

Here are some other reasons:
http://autos.jdpower.com/content/press-release/bTiXte5/2013-u-s-vehicle-dependability-study.htm
2012:
J.D. Power and Associates

2011: J.D. Power and Associates
2010: J.D. Power and Associates
2009: J.D. Power and Associates
2008: J.D. Power and Associates

 

I never thought i would own a Prius until i test drove one... has she test driven the Prius yet? Not sure what Model you're looking at (i.e. 2/3/4/5) but maybe the features could help win her over.

Also, show her the pics here on PC. A few simple mods could maybe help...

 

Hell hath no fury like a women scorned.

 

That to, your whole life is leading up to this moment.

The art if getting married and staying happily married is simple. Every day remind your wife in your special way that she is as sexy as Angelina Jolie, as smart as Hillary Clinon, and as wealthy as a Walton and convince her that buying a Prius makes her all 3 in one.