<prompt> Human: My 3k beater car is failing me after 1.5 years hoped it would last longer and I need to get something more reliable. Ive been looking at some lightly used Toyotas in the 13-15k range that I really like but I cant get rid of the feeling that I shouldnt be spending this much on a depreciating asset even though I can afford it. My gut is telling me I would be just as happy driving a slightly more reliable beater, but at the same time I could spend an extra couple thousand and get something I know will last me years without any major maintenance issues. Money is not an issue for me as I went from 50k to 80k a year and save 2k a month after expenses. It sounds silly but I still get worked up over spending large amounts of money like I would on a new car, and would much rather live like I did when I wasnt making as much. I would be paying it all in cash, but to be honest I probably get more enjoyment out of watching my money grow rather than depreciate. Am I being too stingy now that I can afford nicer things?  <response>: As a general rule, it is good to be wary of lifestyle inflation. However, in this particular case, I think your worries are unfounded. Buying a lightly used car is not a lifestyle decision so much as a financial one - you are paying more up front, but getting a car that will run longer and require repairs less often. So while you are paying more for the car, most of that consists of paying for more years of car, not more dollars per year. 