Prius vs Prius: which is a better deal?

[space-time]

as I am browsing CL, I came across these 2 Priuses (yes, we're looking for a small SUV, wife wants an SUV, but maybe, just maybe I can convince her to get a Prius).

http://cnj.craigslist.org/cto/5441243845.html

2010 Toyota Prius II model hatchback Metallic Gold 36K miles - $11250

http://cnj.craigslist.org/cto/5412557374.html

2011 Prius II - 65k miles- $12000

[Acer]

Less miles, less $$, and a year's difference is insignificant. 2010 was the first year for the revised model; some people say to avoid the first year of a redesign, but I'm not awar of any outstanding issues on 2010s; mine has been fine. A couple minor recalls, but you'll have this.

[OWC Jamie]

I tend to put more weight on miles than year age as you really don't know the build date until you can find it on the door.

[space-time]

thanks, got in touch with both of them, no smoke, no pets, both first owners, I may try to see one or both tomorrow if schedule permits. Wife will hate me if I get a Prius when she wants an SUV, LOL

[GGD]

You might consider the remaining battery warranty in miles and years and your expected driving habits to know if the lower mileage or fewer years would give you longer coverage.

10 years/150,000 miles in NJ.

Warranty
Toyota’s 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and against corrosion with no mileage limitation. The hybrid-related components, including the HV battery, battery control module, hybrid control module and inverter with converter, are covered for eight years/100,000 miles. In applicable states (including Calif., Mass., N.Y, N.J., Vt., Conn., Maine, N.M., and R.I.) hybrid-related component coverage is 15 years/150,000 miles with the exception of the hybrid battery, which is warranted for 10 years/150,000 miles.

http://pressroom.toyota.com/article_disp...le_id=2074

[space-time]

Thanks, that is useful.

[bfd]

Prius II is the entry level model. There may be some very minute difference in what's in each car's Prius II option package - the 2011 might have gained some option that the 2010 doesn't have - it's something to check into.

Make sure both cars come with a spare. 2012 may have been the first year that some Prius models, particularly the PHEV started shipping without spares - or it could've been 2011. Can't remember now.

[Black]

bfd wrote:
Make sure both cars come with a spare.

I have used 2 or 3 Priuses and have been impressed with the amount of cargo room.... but still, I don't see how you're going to fit a second car in there.

[Black]

Paul F made a good point on the "not enough info" thread that backup cameras are not standard on all models and are much needed, so something to check.

[DP]

But does she really want 4WD? IIRC, Prii only come in FWD.