[Phlyer]

I'm not sure I understand your question. If you look at the math in this article, any high-mileage car (which is largely depreciated) will win over any new car. It might not win overall if the cost of maintenance for an old car becomes excessive.

On the other hand, if you're talking about the best, highest miles-per-gallon gasoline-powered Civic versus a Prius, then that question was answered in the article. That is another example of the comparison between the conventional subcompact car and the Volt, stepped up one level in cost (Volt/Sub-compact stepped up to Prius/Civic). The ratios will pretty much hold - the Prius will cost three times as much to operate when you consider only fuel/energy and depreciation. If you add in maintenance (battery replacement on the Prius) the ratio gets even worse.

If anything, the Prius will be worse in comparison to a Civic because they can hardly give Volts away so no one is paying a premium like they are sometimes paying for a Prius.

The clearest statement of hybrids that I have found is analogous to the statement about lotteries. A lottery is a tax on people who are bad at math. A hybrid (or all-electric) is a car for people who are bad at math.

Or for smug, self-satisfied people who like to 'feel good' about driving a hybrid regardless of the math, and regardless of the true environmental impact.

[volunbeer]

Thanks - I have always suggested the Civic high mileage car as the best buy for compact gas saver. I knew it would come out ahead, but was curious to see the math. I have a friend who has over 240k on one and it is still going.

FRegards