the big question is (if you chose to have car payments after giving them a down payment and some other upfront $)
Can you earn miles for car payments?...
I bet you can! So set up a loan for any remaining $$$ you cannot get miles on up front. Go w/that option and then pay it off using whatever means (credit card, etc.) if that gives you miles when paying your loan.
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If speed is not your thing, distance may as well be. Enjoy and embrace it all!