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Step 1
Examine the miles per gallon. Great gas mileage is one of the main reasons to purchase a compact car. Look at the window sticker to find out how many miles per gallon the car gets in the city and the highway. Even small differences add up, especially if you drive a lot.
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Step 2
Check out the power under the hood. Compact cars aren't known for jackrabbit acceleration. They are designed for economy, with most offering no more than about 150 horsepower. If performance is important, though, look for the engine that will make you happy.
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Step 3
Determine how many the car will seat. Most compact cars hold no more than four or five people. Some sporty models are designed to seat only two people. Consider how many people you will be transporting in your car, and purchase accordingly.
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Step 4
Learn what features are offered for the car. Some compact cars offer only limited features. The 2009 Ford Focus SES, for example, offers a CD player, power locks, cruise control and air conditioning as standard equipment, while none of those are standard in the 2009 Honda Civic DX. Determine if you are OK with the standard equipment offered, or if you'll need to upgrade to a different model or customize it to meet your wants and needs.
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Step 5
Compare prices. Not only will a compact car save you money on fuel, it will also cost less, typically, to buy. Compare prices for several compacts, and check to see if manufacturers and dealers are offering any incentives or rebates. This will help you find the right price and save the most money.
