In some ways, Mexico is a very affordable place to live. The food is generally pretty well priced. I mean, how expensive can street tacos get right? When you go to a more tonier place to eat, you’ll definitely feel a pinch on the ol’ wallet. But for the most part, when you live in a small seaside town, there’s not a whole lot of retail therapy to be had.
My ‘96 Nissan Pathfinder is basically on it’s last legs. It’s a great truck. It gets me to and from the local surf spots like a total champ, but on a three week surfing expedition, I’m not sure how well she’ll hold up. A week or so ago, the thingy that moves the fan belts broke and it’s the latest in a long stream of exponentially worsening issues. So we are casually looking around for a new car. Or should I say, a newer car. and a little more reliable in the long run.
I’m a total convert to the idea of buying used. It just makes sense. Anything to avoid paying new car sticker prices. I done it once, can’t get fooled again. With used cars, you’ll get a pretty well seasoned car, not too many miles and for a price that reflects it’s true Blue Book Value. Well, I have my eye on a pretty modestly priced used truck, in Los Angeles. With the idea of buying it and then driving down here to mex.
This is a bit of a hassle though, the drive and having foreign plates, kinda leaves you open to the whole mordida thing. We looked into possibly buying a new car in Mexico, since buying a used car just isn’t safe here. There’s no return policy on anything, never mind a lemon. Do not buy a used car in mexico unless the owner is your personal friend. It’s just a fact.
This brings me to the point of this entry. New cars in Mexico cost almost double what they cost in the US. double!. something about a “luxury” tax. ouch. A Nissan Xterra. humble truck, not fancy, the xtreme kids like it for the dumb marketing gimmicks, but honestly, it’s basically the same car as my Pathfinder, right? Perfect for salty surfboards and sandy dogs. Down here, the 4×4 version costs $35,000. yes, dollars. that is insane. There’s just no way I can justify spending that much money for a car, period, never mind an Xterra.
So when asked, is Mexico cheap? I’ll always so yes, it can be, but the crossed fingers behind my back, means that anytime there is something “luxury” related, like a car, a tv, a plane ticket or even a pair of jeans, you’re gonna pay more then you would in the US. Again, it’s just a fact.
those nissan pathfinders are great! i just sold my 1993 pathfinder 224K today. it still runs like a charm. all major parts engine except the odometer are OEM.