It turns out that price may not be the only reason why you should buy a used car over a new one. Results of a new study suggest that the so-called "new car smell" could actually make you sick. The scent some people find so appealing is sometimes caused by volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) that may damage your health, USA Today reports.

The research was conducted at the Ecology Center, which analyzed the materials used in the construction of the interior of new cars. It found that some models are healthier for drivers than others, with the Honda Civic having the lowest amount of dangerous chemicals of all new models. On the other hand, the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport had the highest levels.

Specifically, the Outlander Sport contain a number of harsh chemicals such as bromine and antimony-based flame retardants as well as chromium-treated leather. The car's seating contained 400 parts-per-million of lead.

Although it might seem like bad news, automakers are actually taking steps correct the problem. Jeff Gearhart, research director at the Ecology Center, told USA Today that "it's a positive story, because the industry is working on" finding new materials and chemicals that may be less hazardous.

The new car smell may have a somewhat pleasant scene to some, but if it is harmful to your health, is it worth it? Automobiles that are several years old may no longer have that new car smell but will still run just as well. New Jersey State Auto Auction has plenty of used cars available to the public at affordable prices, and with a wide variety of makes and models there is something for everyone.