Question:
Julia must choose between two different designs for a safety closure, which will be in use indefinitely. Model A has a life of three years, a first cost of $8000, and maintenance of $1000 per year. Model B will last four years, has a first cost of $10,000, and has maintenance of $800 per year. A salvage value can be estimated for Model A using a depreciation rate of 40% and declining-balance depreciation, while a salvage value for Model B can be estimated using straight-line depreciation and the knowledge that after one year its salvage value will be $7500. Interest is at 14%. Using a present worth analysis, which design is better?