This is the big advantage to leasing.

When you buy a $24,000 car, you have to pay off the entire amount, plus interest, over three to five years, depending on the term of your loan.

If you lease that car for two years and the leasing company expects it to be worth $18,000 when you return it, you'll only pay for the $6,000 in value that you use up plus interest.

So let's say you make no down payment and are charged 6% interest and a 7% sales tax. You'd pay $603 a month on a four-year loan and $381 a month for a two-year lease.

The answers to five questions will help you decide whether to lease or buy.