This year I purchased my dream car, a 2008 Chevrolet Corvette convertible. Since opposites usually attract, my wife looks at cars as transportation appliances, while I view them as children who I don't mind bathing. Looking back on the buying process, I would like to offer the following advice to married readers who want to buy their dream car.
My dream car, a 2008 Chevrolet Corvette convertible, right after a bath.
Shut Up and Start Saving
Unless you are married to an accountant, you should be able to place some excess monthly money into a "special" account. If you are caught, don't panic. Stay calm and dejectedly tell your spouse something about "not spoiling the surprise" and let them imagine a romantic vacation or home improvements. Practicing in front of a mirror for this potential setback can help keep your dream alive.
Sell the Idea
This is the hardest step so you must be careful with the approach you take depending on your spouse's personality. If you are married to a "Bean Counter," a good technique is to start mentioning cars out of your price range. A few well-timed "Honey, there's a nice used Ferrari I want to look at" comments could make your dream car look like a bargain. If you are married to "Not Unless We Need It," then sell the idea of romantic weekend vacations, car club involvement, and letting them drive it. Use the "Honey, I just returned from the doctor and it's not good" approach only as a last resort.
Do not disclose your down payment money until you have softened up your spouse to the idea. Mentioning money prematurely will only result in its being confiscated towards housing or children's education, just like the government. Do not say, "We're not getting any younger," unless you want a new retirement account or cemetery plots.
Start Car Shopping
Once you have approval from your spouse, don't delay. Have all of the important choices like engine, transmission, coupe or convertible selected ahead of time. Involve your spouse with decisions like color choice, so you can use the phrase "our car" when the first payment is due. Order the car, buy car cleaning products, and practice saying "You can drive next time, honey."
NADAguides.com can help you choose your dream car from a wide array of new cars, used cars, and classic cars.