AutoNation Inc (AN)vsLithia Motors Inc (LAD)
AN
AutoNation Inc
$188.08
+1.28%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $6.41B
LAD
Lithia Motors Inc
$288.84
-0.61%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $7.15B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
Lithia Motors Inc generates 37% more annual revenue ($37.73B vs $27.49B). AN leads profitability with a 2.5% profit margin vs 1.9%. LAD appears more attractively valued with a PEG of 0.70. AN earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 66/100 (B-).
AN
Strong Buy66
out of 100
Grade: B-
LAD
Buy55
out of 100
Grade: C
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Intrinsic value data unavailable for AN.
Margin of Safety
+8.7%
Fair Value
$350.78
Current Price
$288.84
$61.94 discount
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Every $100 of equity generates 30 in profit
Growing faster than its price suggests
Reasonable price relative to book value
Earnings expanding 31.5% YoY
Attractively priced relative to earnings
Reasonable price relative to book value
Growing faster than its price suggests
Areas to Watch
2.5% margin — thin
Operating margin of 4.7%
Weak financial health signals
Revenue declined 2.1%
1.0% revenue growth
1.9% margin — thin
Operating margin of 3.6%
Elevated debt levels
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : AN
The strongest argument for AN centers on P/E Ratio, Return on Equity, PEG Ratio. PEG of 0.71 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bull Case : LAD
The strongest argument for LAD centers on P/E Ratio, Price/Book, PEG Ratio. PEG of 0.70 suggests the stock is reasonably priced for its growth.
Bear Case : AN
The primary concerns for AN are Profit Margin, Operating Margin, Piotroski F-Score. Debt-to-equity of 4.71 is elevated, increasing financial risk. Thin 2.5% 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 1.51 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 1.26 — expect wider price swings.
LAD is growing revenue faster at 1.0% — sustainability is the question.
AN generates stronger free cash flow (-34M), providing more financial flexibility.
Monitor AUTO & TRUCK DEALERSHIPS industry trends, competitive dynamics, and regulatory changes.
Bottom Line
AN scores higher overall (66/100 vs 55/100). Both earn "Strong 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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