Zipcar vs. car rentals
We picked a random day and location in Washington DC and did the math.
Don't believe it? Try it for yourself.
Car Rental
Company: A large rental company.
Location: Amtrak Union Station
Car: A Hyundai Accent. The cheapest car in stock.
| Total | $102.19 |
| Daily rate (no hourly rate option) | $55.99 |
| Gas (estimated) | $10.00 |
| Insurance/damage waiver | $21.99 |
| 21-25 age surcharge (they won't even rent to you if you're under 25 – but some tack on an additional $35!) | N/A |
| Parking (assumes you park in a garage for 1 hour during your rental) | $8.00 |
| Additional fees | $6.21 |
Zipcar
Company: Zipcar
Location: Downtown
Car: A brand spankn' new Scion xB (xB Boompah).
| Total | $69 |
| Daily rate (or by the hour for $7) | $69 |
| Gas (it's included) | $0 |
| Insurance (that's included too) | $0 |
| 21-25 age surcharge (we don't think it's fair to charge more) | ($0) |
| Parking (use the spot like it's yours) | $0 |
You save about $33.
Ready to become a Zipcar member?
Ready to become a Zipcar member?
