The Hidden Costs of Luxury Vehicles: Understanding the Price Per Mile

Purchasing an expensive luxury vehicle can be an exhilarating experience, but it often comes with a hidden cost that many buyers overlook: the price per mile. While the allure of driving a high-end car is undeniable, the reality is that the less frequently you drive it, the more expensive it becomes on a per-mile basis. This paradox can lead to a significant financial burden, especially when considering the depreciation and maintenance costs associated with luxury vehicles.

The Cost of Infrequent Use

When you invest in a luxury car, you might be tempted to keep it pristine, saving it for special occasions rather than daily use. However, this mindset can inflate the overall cost of ownership. According to research by iSeeCars, the average price of a new car is around $44,223, and the average annual mileage is approximately 12,307 miles. This results in an average cost of $3,593 per 1,000 miles driven. In contrast, luxury vehicles often have much higher costs per mile, making them less economical if not driven regularly.

The Research Behind the Numbers

To better understand the financial implications of owning luxury vehicles, iSeeCars analyzed over 1 million three-year-old used cars sold between November 2024 and April 2025. By examining odometer readings and new car prices, they identified the most expensive cars to drive. The findings reveal a stark contrast between average vehicles and luxury models, highlighting the financial burden of infrequent use.

Top 10 Most Expensive Cars to Drive

Here’s a closer look at the top 10 most expensive cars to drive, based on their average price, annual mileage, and cost per 1,000 miles:

1. Porsche 911

• Average New Price: $179,739
• Average Miles Driven Per Year: 2,961
• Price Per 1,000 Miles: $60,708
• Price Compared to Average: 16.89x

2. Mercedes-Benz SL-Class

• Average New Price: $160,195
• Average Miles Driven Per Year: 2,679
• Price Per 1,000 Miles: $59,788
• Price Compared to Average: 16.64x

3. Porsche 911 Convertible

• Average New Price: $180,815
• Average Miles Driven Per Year: 3,207
• Price Per 1,000 Miles: $56,388
• Price Compared to Average: 15.69x

4. Lucid Air

• Average New Price: $247,847
• Average Miles Driven Per Year: 5,784
• Price Per 1,000 Miles: $42,853
• Price Compared to Average: 11.93x

5. Mercedes-Benz G-Class

• Average New Price: $179,405
• Average Miles Driven Per Year: 5,150
• Price Per 1,000 Miles: $34,836
• Price Compared to Average: 9.69x

6. Audi RS e-tron GT

• Average New Price: $160,951
• Average Miles Driven Per Year: 5,386
• Price Per 1,000 Miles: $29,884
• Price Compared to Average: 8.32x

7. Lexus LC 500 Convertible

• Average New Price: $112,772
• Average Miles Driven Per Year: 3,927
• Price Per 1,000 Miles: $28,717
• Price Compared to Average: 7.99x

8. Porsche 718 Boxster

• Average New Price: $100,328
• Average Miles Driven Per Year: 3,545
• Price Per 1,000 Miles: $28,304
• Price Compared to Average: 7.88x

9. Chevrolet Corvette Convertible

• Average New Price: $92,508
• Average Miles Driven Per Year: 3,596
• Price Per 1,000 Miles: $25,726
• Price Compared to Average: 7.16x

10. Porsche 718 Cayman

• Average New Price: $96,017
• Average Miles Driven Per Year: 3,773
• Price Per 1,000 Miles: $25,445
• Price Compared to Average: 7.08x

Conclusion

Owning a luxury vehicle can be a dream come true, but it’s essential to consider the financial implications of infrequent use. The data from iSeeCars illustrates that the cost per mile can skyrocket for high-end cars, making them a less economical choice if not driven regularly. For potential buyers, understanding these costs can lead to more informed decisions, ensuring that the luxury experience doesn’t come with an unexpected financial burden.

As you weigh your options, remember that a luxury vehicle is not just a status symbol; it’s an investment that requires careful consideration of how often you plan to drive it.