Cash for Clunkers calculations

[neoINDIE]

I keep seeing calculations on how this program pays for itself because of the gas saved.

The calculation is based 100% on the difference in mpg from the clunker to the new vehicle.

I was having a "discussion" with a loon on another forum, who claims to be an engineer. I said the calculations are not valid because they do not take into account how much the new vehicle will be driven vs. how much the old one was. Common sense says the new vehicle will be driven more than the old one. If you gain 25% in mpg, but drive 50% more, that does not save gas.

He said that was irrelevant. An engineer. Why can't people just think a little deeper instead of just swallowing the crap they are fed whole?

[Rurudyne]

Common sense actually demands that energy is expended producing the new car too but no one hardly questions that aspect (i.e. how many miles driven before you break even in total energy used including energy to manufacture).

Likewise, people are consuming their own resources to buy these cars ... how much "energy" will it take on their part to finally pay it off?

[pattyk]

and what about the energy to smash all the clunkers?

this isn't about saving energy once again.

[StemcellFajita]

this isn't about saving energy once again.

What's it about then? I think I can guess what you're going to say, but I enjoy hearing it too much to pass up :).

[timjy]

We should start a pool .How many dealers will sell clunker cars .They probable will not report it though.Serial #S of dead cars are going to be golden.

[timjy]

What's it about then? I think I can guess what you're going to say, but I enjoy hearing it too much to pass up :).
O bams commission on car sales.He lies like a used car salesmen.

[Backwoods]

What's it about then? I think I can guess what you're going to say, but I enjoy hearing it too much to pass up :).

It is about Obama's insatiable desire to spend taxpayer money like a heroin addict in the feids of Afganistan. Of course you would know that if the MSM would quit letting Obama use their collective chin for a testicle rest.

[johnrocks]

Cash for Clunkers is a prime example of the Broken Window Fallacy,imho.

[harumph]

Obama's spending our money like a drunken sailor.

[Cue the theme song from Summer of '42] Those were the days. I remember my first credit card.

[Metal Conservative]

What's it about then? I think I can guess what you're going to say, but I enjoy hearing it too much to pass up :).

Clunkers are the new overpriced toilet seats! :)