You keep stating interest in some threads, but it's a return on investment rate. I assume you're meaning to put it in some type of 401k plan. Yes, it'll probably return that much money after 30 years. It's also true that it is the smarter financial thing to do.

Yeah, I meant rate of return. Not necessarily 401k, generally you should be maximizing your tax advantaged accounts first and then moving to bonds, mutual funds, stocks, etc.

Thus, the difference is not to buy a "car for ~8 or so years (average car lifespan), or $100,000 in 30 years", but would you rather retire x amount of years earlier by never touching (at least you shouldn't) a chunk of your money for the next 30 years OR retire like the regular fairly well off 60-70 year olds but also get to drive the cars of your choice while you're in your young?

Agreed on the 100k being a factor of retiring earlier. Ultimately your own personal values will determine the best course of action, however it's painfully common for people to save far less for retirement than is needed. Hell, most people don't even have an emergency fund to cover an expensive emergency, job loss, or other difficult event.

I see in another thread that you will retire around 50. Good for you, really. That takes huge commitment if someone makes 70k. Not only on being frugal on your car, but other living expenses as well. I cannot be that frugal. There are people like you who save, save, save.

I honestly don't feel like I'm saving an extreme amount at all. I go on an expensive vacation annually, which increases my retirement age by just over a year. Totally worth it. I probably drink more beer than I should, and definitely eat out more than I'd like to.