CVNA vs. AN: Which Auto Retail Stock Should Growth Investors Buy?

Core Insights - Carvana and AutoNation represent two distinct business models in U.S. auto retail, with Carvana focusing on a fully digital platform for used vehicles and AutoNation maintaining a network of physical dealerships while expanding its digital presence [1][2] Carvana Overview - Carvana has become the second-largest used car retailer in the U.S., utilizing a digital-first model that simplifies the car-buying process [3] - The company has exceeded earnings expectations for four consecutive quarters, selling over 100,000 retail units per quarter, with a nearly 46% year-over-year increase in retail unit sales [4] - Operational efficiency improvements have led to a record adjusted EBITDA of $488 million and an adjusted EBITDA margin of 11.5%, significantly above industry norms [5] - Tariff-related uncertainties may benefit Carvana as consumers shift towards used cars due to rising new vehicle prices [6] - As of March 31, 2025, Carvana had $5.26 billion in long-term debt and a debt-to-capital ratio of 0.75, indicating higher financial leverage risk [7] - The company aims to scale to 3 million units sold annually with EBITDA margins of 13.5% within the next 5 to 10 years [8] AutoNation Overview - AutoNation combines a broad physical dealership network with digital initiatives, selling both new and used vehicles while generating income from higher-margin services [10] - The finance arm has become a significant contributor to profitability, with low delinquency rates and improved loan penetration across franchise locations [11] - However, AutoNation faces challenges with approximately 50% of revenues tied to new vehicle sales, making it vulnerable to tariff-related cost pressures [12] - Profitability is under pressure, with EBITDA margins below 6% and rising SG&A costs as a percentage of gross profit [13] - AutoNation has been active in returning capital to shareholders, repurchasing 2.9 million shares for $460 million in 2024 and an additional $254 million in early 2025 [14] Price Performance and Valuation - Over the past year, Carvana shares have increased by more than 200%, while AutoNation stock has gained 17% [16] - Carvana is trading at a forward sales multiple of 3.41, significantly above its five-year median of 1.95, while AutoNation's forward sales multiple is at 0.26, close to its median of 0.25 [18] - Carvana's valuations reflect high growth expectations and improving profitability, making it an attractive option for growth-oriented investors [20] Conclusion - Carvana is positioned as a stronger investment choice due to its digital-first approach and solid growth momentum, while AutoNation's diversified model provides stability but faces challenges from rising tariffs and shrinking margins [21][22] - Carvana's strong earnings growth expectations and solid price momentum contribute to its Zacks Rank 1 (Strong Buy) and Growth Score of A, making it appealing for growth-oriented investors [23]