On a pure math equation it looks pretty nice however the big assumptions:
1. from the calculation is that the depreciation is only 49% within 5 years
2. maintenance cost is equal
3. total hours wasted in service center is zero

Whats the reason behind it?

1. Resale value is market force driven thus it is a benefit/factor from each individual buyer in the market that creates this value.

Why is a Vios J when new cost about RM70k and after 5 years its resale value is about RM50-65k, where else a better spec Ford Fiesta when new cost about RM90k and after 5 years its resale value is about RM55-70k which is quite near the Vios. Vios normally fetches a higher resale value because the man on the street gives Toyota cars a reputation for being frugal on fuel, maintenance is cheap, parts new/old/recon widely available, service network is huge plus also any workshop can also work with their cars so for a less hassle car they willing to pay the premium even for a used car. Where else the Fiesta although a better car the after sales support Malaysia is weaker compared to Toyota, also because there isn't significant numbers on the road not many stockist would have parts for it especially uncommon ones thus for those rare few that keep stock they want to make money from it because there isn't economics of scale, or getting from SC which is confirmed new and original but at a higher price.

You'll also notice the popular trading price for cars is around 45-75k, this I guess is considered an affordable price range for Malaysians and the used car wouldn't be too old at this point - around 3-5 years depending on brand. So the average Joe can finally buy an imported car after it being used 3-5 years at the price of lets say RM60k, deposit RM10k, 3.5% interest rate for 7 years it is at a manageable RM750 per month.

2. Continental cars service frequency is different from Asian cars, so that 10,000kms before service requires better quality parts and lubricants. That equates to higher cost already for the parts and lubricants. Of course a benefit would be less frequent visits to service centers which is also good since they are few and far apart.



Although from my experience resale value is only an issue if you're planning to change car every 5-7 years.
Once the car is above 9 years old most cars of the same segment would depreciate to similar levels unless that particular model is popular then it would retain its value for a long time.
Case in point the Honda Civic EG and EK they hold their value well for a very long time, they would probably become too old physically and technologically once Honda comes out with their next generation of Vtec engines, the current is the i-Vtec as opposed to the Vtec in the Honda's of the 90's.

IMHO if you need to calculate so much then you're not ready for it, just buy a cheap used car or new local car and be contented.

LOL! i can see a discussion will soon turn to become T&H vs everyone else. Kthnxbye!