Board Thread:Game Discussion/@comment-2A02:C7D:C14:300:1CF:252B:7520:1A69-20170930110738/@comment-26829117-20170930114259

It all depends on your goals.
 * Full Garage - 318 to win, 660 to buy
 * 100% Career - 653 to win and upgrade, 1313 to buy and upgrade

Whilst winning the car isn't always cheaper than buying it, you still get the upgrades. It all depends if you want / need the car of not.