Originally Posted by I-Like-To-Bike
I have a question. Is the "problem" owning a motor vehicle or using one at all? In other words, are miles run up on a rental or borrowed car somehow better than if done with a motor vehicle the cyclist owns and uses when necessary?
On a mile for mile basis probably not. If your goal is to secure the cheapest personal automobile transportation then buy an inexpensive priced economy car, reasonably maintain it, and drive it into the ground over the next 15 - 20 years.
As I mentioned in my other reply car-sharing is just one component in replacing a personal automobile. In those cities where they exist I think most people will find the following equation true:
cost of car-sharing + public transporation + taxis + etc. < cost of car owning + insurance + parking + maintenance + etc.
Originally Posted by I-Like-To-Bike
Besides this economic advantage (in some cases) what other positive points are assumed to be earned/gained for the ownership free?
You are unaware of the environmental impact millions of cars make? Global warming? How about the geo-political ramifications of oil dependancy? Terrorism funded by petrol dollars? Cardiovascular health and the growing obesity problem?
All of these problems are fueled (hey I made a pun!
) by overuse of the automobile.