What can you actually afford?
Most calculators stop at the loan payment. This one is built on all-in monthly cost — payment, insurance, fuel, and maintenance — against your real take-home pay. Three honest answers, not one flattering one.
Educational estimates only — not financial, lending, or insurance advice. See the methodology below.
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All-in monthly cost stays easy to carry. Room left for everything else you're building.
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Noticeable, sustainable if your income is stable. The honest middle for most enthusiasts.
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A deliberate values choice: the car is a priority and the rest of the budget knows it. Eyes open.
Where these numbers come from.
Each tier caps your all-in monthly cost of ownership — loan payment plus estimated insurance, fuel, and maintenance — at a fixed share of monthly take-home pay: 15% (Comfortable), 20% (Stretch), or 25% (Car-First). Ownership-cost estimates vary by vehicle age, reflecting that older enthusiast cars typically cost less to insure but more to maintain. Financing assumptions use indicative APRs by credit profile and vehicle age, consistent with standard auto-lending practices.
These are educational estimates intended to help you visualize and budget — not financial, lending, insurance, or investment advice, and not a quote. Your actual rates, premiums, and running costs will differ. Verify all figures with your lender and insurer before making any purchase decision.
Now find the right car for it.
The Vehicle Selection Package turns your range into three specific cars with live listings — researched, vetted, and explained.
See the advisory