<prompt> Human: I need a new car soon. I know that some people buy them, some people lease them, and some people lease them and then eventually buy them later, etc. I also know a persons personal and financial situation is too complex to just ask what should I do, but Id love some guidance on what factors should be considered. What should I take into account when deciding to lease vs buy? When is one better than the other?There are several questions on here about leasing vs renting, but theyre always about one person, and people suggest courses of action for them specifically. Im 28, with a 1995 Volvo with 85k miles, and I just got a job making 110k a year. Im engaged, but my monthly expenses are still around 2k a month, so Im hoping to do some good investing and saving before my lifestyle changes too much. However, I dont just want suggestions, Im trying to get a feel for how people choose their answers. Id like to understand when each choice is a good idea. Any help is appreciated!  <response>: The fact that you already own a car with only 85k miles on it seems to be the biggest factor in your situation. That is, if you are looking to make the most financially responsible decision. The simplest way to think of buy vs lease is total cost of ownership over a long period of time. Look at 15 years, for example. If you are the type of driver that buys new every couple years no matter what, and you dont drive many miles, a lease might work out in your favor. You might go through 5 leases over your fifteen year period. Conversely, you could purchase a single car that would last you that long. Factor in expected maintenance, down payments due on the leases, expected monthly payments, residuals, etc. 