AutoNation Inc (AN)vsLithia Motors Inc (LAD)
AN
AutoNation Inc
$168.18
-3.77%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $6.92B
LAD
Lithia Motors Inc
$316.27
-1.68%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $8.11B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Lithia Motors Inc generates 38% more annual revenue ($37.94B vs $27.45B). AN leads profitability with a 2.8% profit margin vs 1.9%. AN appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.58. AN earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 63/100 (C+).
AN
Buy63
out of 100
Grade: C+
LAD
Buy61
out of 100
Grade: C+
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Intrinsic value data unavailable for AN.
Margin of Safety
+11.9%
Fair Value
$363.82
Current Price
$316.27
$47.55 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Every $100 of equity generates 30 in profit
Earnings expanding 138.5% YoY
Growing faster than its price suggests
Reasonable price relative to book value
Reasonable price relative to book value
Growing faster than its price suggests
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Areas to Watch
2.8% margin — thin
Operating margin of 4.5%
Revenue declined 0.6%
Negative free cash flow — burning cash
2.2% revenue growth
1.9% margin — thin
Operating margin of 4.6%
Weak financial health signals
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : AN
The strongest argument for AN centers on P/E Ratio, Return on Equity, EPS Growth. PEG of 0.58 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : LAD
The strongest argument for LAD centers on Price/Book, PEG Ratio, P/E Ratio. PEG of 0.72 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : AN
The primary concerns for AN are Profit Margin, Operating Margin, Revenue Growth. Debt-to-equity of 5.02 is elevated, increasing financial risk. Thin 2.8% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Bear Case : LAD
The primary concerns for LAD are Revenue Growth, Profit Margin, Operating Margin. Debt-to-equity of 2.58 is elevated, increasing financial risk. Thin 1.9% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
LAD carries more volatility with a beta of 1.23 — expect wider price swings.
LAD is growing revenue faster at 2.2% — sustainability is the question.
LAD generates stronger free cash flow (-122M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor AUTO & TRUCK DEALERSHIPS industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
AN scores higher overall (63/100 vs 61/100). Both earn "Buy" and "Buy" ratings respectively — the choice depends on your investment horizon and risk tolerance.
This analysis is generated from publicly available financial data. Not financial advice.
AutoNation Inc
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · AUTO & TRUCK DEALERSHIPS · USA
AutoNation, Inc. is an automobile retailer in the United States. The company is headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Lithia Motors Inc
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · AUTO & TRUCK DEALERSHIPS · USA
Lithia Motors, Inc. is an automobile retailer in the United States. The company is headquartered in Medford, Oregon.
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