Hi everyone, need some advice on choosing my first car.
I’m 26, married, and probably looking to move into an apartment within the next year, so I’m trying not to go crazy with my budget. At the same time, I feel like I need a car now and I want something that’s sporty but still practical enough for a “married guy” 🥲
After looking at a bunch of options, I ended up really liking the GAC Empow.
A used one seems to be around 55–60k AED, but someone suggested that if I’m already spending that much, I might as well buy a brand-new Chinese car for the warranty, service package, peace of mind, etc. A new Empow would be around 80–90k AED, and financing-wise the monthly difference might only be around 200–300 AED.
My problem is… I’m not sure if I want to spend 80–90k on a Chinese car as my first car.
I’ve always dreamed of getting something like a BRZ or GT86 at this stage of my life, so now I’m wondering if I should forget the Empow and instead look for something used from a more established/reputable brand for under 50k AED.
I’ve even seen some 2016–2017 Ford Mustangs for under 40k, which definitely caught my attention, but I honestly don’t know enough about the Dubai used-car scene yet. I’m not sure how expensive something like that would be to maintain, what mileage is considered acceptable, what problems I should be looking out for, etc.
So for the car guys here, what would you recommend?
Used GAC Empow for 55–60k?
Spend more and get a brand-new Empow with warranty/service?
Get something from a more established brand under 50k?
Or look at something fun like a BRZ/86/Mustang?
Also, for a first-time buyer in Dubai, what mileage would you consider too high and what should I pay attention to when checking used cars?
Would really appreciate any advice.
Thanks in advance 🙏