Don't necessarily think car model, think car use. Are you likely to be cruising around in a convertible, top down, wind in your hair and the roar of the engine in your ears?

Or are you more likely to be chauffeuring children in the neighborhood car pool? Evaluate your needs and preferences to determine your current car style. If you know the answers to these questions, you can help yourself determine which car best fits you. 

What are the primary and secondary uses of the car? If your car will be used primarily to get you to and from work each day or to transport family members, you'll want to look for one that is easy to drive and park and has low operating costs. You'll want something durable, strong and roomy if you will be using the car to haul stuff home or to your job site. If you'll be using the car on the job or taking long vacation drives, you should look for one with excellent gas mileage and a comfortable ride.

Who will be in the car most of the time? This will determine how much interior space you need. If it's just you, or you and your spouse, you'll need comfortable front seats. But if several people will be using the car, the back should be easy to get into and out of and should have plenty of leg room.

How often will the car be used? Will you use it every day, several times a week or only occasionally? The more time you spend in your car, the more important comfort is likely to be. Considering frequency of use can also help determine engine needs. If you put an average number of miles on your car per year (about 12,000), a midsize engine may suit you best. If you drive more miles, a larger engine may mean a more enduring performance. If you drive fewer miles, a smaller engine may offer better economy.

Where will you be driving? Will you be driving mostly on highways or on city streets?  If you travel roughback roads, a sport/utility vehicle will work much better than a sporty convertible. What features do you consider most important? Consider these in the light of the above questions. Do you care more about safety than performance, or more about low operating cost than comfort? Are there styles or brands you favor? Do you prefer automatic or standard shift transmission?

What are you willing to give up? Realize that some trade-offs may be in order. If you buy the sports car you've been wanting for years, chances are it won't have room for your luggage on long trips. Satisfy your desire for something big enough to haul the whole family at once, and you may find a car harder to maneuver and park.