ANSWER: There are a lot of opportunity costs than buying a car. If a friend of mine decides to buy a car, I would help him take a decision at the best. There are lot of other modes of transportation which I will like to try to make him understand rather than buying a car and investing a lot of money in it.
1. Public Transportation: Public Transportation like bus, trains are one of the safest and cheapest way to travel. It also provides a good way of connectivity for every traveler. Majority of the population prefers using a public transport rather than using a personal vehicle.
2. Cabs: Taking a cab is also a good way of transportation. Cabs give a feel of personal vehicle without giving the burden of owning a personal vehicle.
3. Vehicle Pooling: There is also an option to share vehicles with others this is called Vehicle Pooling. It not only saves money but also saves the environment by not using a personal vehicle individually and increasing carbon emissions.
These are options which can opted by the friend by not buying a car and the opportunity cost by saving the money could be used by for other alternatives and investments.
