Be Aware of Value-Losing Cars

SEE ALSO: Get Smart, Not Screwed Total Operating Cost Guide

Washington DC May 4, 2007; The AIADA newsletter reported that the biggest cost of car ownership isn't gas, repairs or even adding that amazing sound system. Nope, it's depreciation, or the car's decrease in value over time. Forbes has compiled a list of the worst automotive offender when it comes to value deprecation.

The autos that depreciate most are frequently high-volume, older vehicles. The winners? Those that are well-designed, well-engineered and are usually in limited supply and high demand, according to Kelley Blue Book.

Three Ford models: the Ford E-Series van, the Ford Crown Victoria, and Mercury Grand Marquis sedans— were part of the list of new-model cars with the worst predicted depreciation.

Forbes recommends that buyers hoping to garner a higher resale value should choose a popular exterior color, such as black, white, or silver. They should also opt for popular features, such as anti-lock brakes, alloy wheels, CD players, navigation systems, radar-equipped cruise control, and leather seats.