E46 conundrum

[tgr]

I have an E46 (2002) in great condition which I'm thinking of replacing because:

1) ULEZ is coming and has already altered my driving habits (I used to drive into central London outside rush hour as the mood took me). For clarity, my E46 is not ULEZ compliant and the zone will be extended in 2021

2) the E46 is not getting any younger. While it is a superb car, I'm worried parts will start giving up en masse as they were not built to last for ever. Rust will not remain at bay for ever, etc. etc

Obviously ULEZ is not a ban, it is simply a tax. Realistically it would add at maximum £500 a year to my car costs. But it is certainly dissuasive in behavioural terms even if £500 is not massive in terms of cost of ownership and particularly cost to change. I worry that in sticking with what I know and am comfortable with, I'll just end up with more maintenance where I should really be using the opportunity to trade out. The thing is, I've been offered derisory trade in amounts for my car

Thoughts?

[ZX10R NIN]

If you don't have to drive through Central London then that'll mean you cut out the cost of the ULEZ charge but come 2021 you may find it easier & cheaper overall including maintenance & ULEZ charge wise.

[tgr]

Thanks ZX - but I'm assuming if I wait until 2021 there'll be a flood of non ULEZ compliant cars being sold and my car will be worth much (even!) less than if I change it now

[ZX10R NIN]

Yes that will be the case which is why most are changing now.

[tgr]

Looks like that's the answer