The Civic basic DX would be cheaper to buy and own over about 6-7 years, depending on gas prices. Its somewhat straightforward as far as the math.

However, the two cars are not the same at all. The DX, for instance, doesnt have power steering.

For me, my comparison was between the monthly maintenance and gas bills with the older car versus a new Civic Hybrid.

In actuality, I found that the monthly payment I make on the new Hybrid, after my downpayment, is less than gas cost difference and maintenance on the old car. So a positive effect on cash flow if you will, by driving the civic hybrid. It is in fact quite fun and much better for the environment, my time ( less time going to the gas station), and more conserving of resources.

The tax credit and resale of my older car, while not quite equal to my downpayment, made the effective out of pocket expense of purchasing the Hybrid to be about 3000 dollars. The true cost of this car to me as a one time payment and moving forward really is about 3000.