"The way it's recorded in the consumer price index (CPI) is it's quality adjusted … there are two things going on. Both of those things are happening at a great pace, particularly in things like technology. Now, for probably relatively the same dollar price, you're getting quite a bit more in terms of what it can achieve. "You're getting much more efficient vehicles over time, their technology is of a higher standard and there are more safety features. "If you want an old vintage one you are probably getting it for $2 at the op shop or something ... compared to what it might have originally retailed for.

Source: Stuff March 11, 2026 21:07 UTC