Smart Car or Motorcycle: Which Saves You More Money?

The Smart Car from Mercedes is arguably the smallest car in the United States, and is touted as having the best gas mileage of all non-hybrid vehicles. Offering only two seats and very little storage space, this vehicle is larger than a motorcycle, but is scarcely more practical. Many Smart Car owners state that increased gas efficiency is the main reason they own a Smart Car. If you, like many Smart Car owners, are looking to save gas, a motorcycle may be a better option.

Cost

When it comes down to the price tag, a motorcycle can be purchased cheaper. The cheapest Smart Car is priced at $11,540 as of January 2011, more than double the price of a new 250cc motorcycle.

The smallest motorcycle engine that can travel at highway speeds is 250cc, which is typically considered an ideal beginner engine size. The Honda Rebel 250 (cruiser/$4000) and the Kawasaki Ninja 250 (sport/$4000) are the two most popular 250cc motorcycles, though Honda has just released the CBR250r (sport/$4000), which is a sports bike. Suzuki offers the cheapest 250cc motorcycle - the GZ250 cruiser, which is priced at $2999 new.

A used motorcycle can be had for less than $2000, though it may require repairs or tires, which will increase the initial price.

Gas Mileage

The Smart Car boasts 41MPG highway, while the Suzuki GZ250 is rated at 82MPG highway.

Storage

Though motorcycles can have saddlebags added, or a trailer if you need more room, it still has less storage space than a small motorcycle. A larger touring motorcycle will have a comfortable rear seat for a passenger, and will be equipped with fairly large trunks and compartments. Unfortunately, even a large touring motorcycle, which will cost in excess of $10k, won't have a roof, which means the motorcycle still offers less storage space than a Smart Car.

Riding Conditions

Individuals who live in a climate that is warm all year should look into a motorcycle. If you live in a location that has frequent rain and snow, you will likely need a second vehicle if you purchase a motorcycle, which negates the savings.

If you don't have kids, frequently have a passenger, and live somewhere with a snowy winter season, the Smart Car would be the most economical choice. If you rarely transport visitors, don't require a lot of storage space, and live somewhere with a temperate climate, a motorcycle is cheapest.