I've leased cars 3 times prior to my 07 sedan, which I will give back to the dealer in Dec. Already thinking about my next car and plan to lease. I've never put money down on a lease except required tax & title costs, figuring that it makes better economic sense to keep my cash invested and pay the higher lease payments over time. Of course I am paying more interest on the larger installment payments over the course of the lease.

On my next car, I do have the ability to plunk down a substantial amount up front or even pay the entire lease off. However, there is evidence that we may face inflation in the near future and wonder whether I should keep my cash. If inflation does hit (which for everyone's sake I hope does not), it seems to me a better choice to keep the cash sequestered.

I am no math or finance wiz, so I wonder what others think. I've been given varying opinions in the past.

 

For as much financial sense as you seem to have I'm surprised you are leasing. I would just make the payments and leave the cash available though if it was my decision to make.

 

lol, you're right but I always seem to want a new car every couple years. If I had great financial sense, I would buy the car, take good care of it and try to keep it going for six or eight years. Cars are my major vice, no doubt about that.