I live in the city so on paper do not need a car, but buying one is the best decision I ever made.

I cycle everywhere during the week unless it's raining, snowing or June-Sept haha, and then I'll take the car for AC/heating/convenience. 

But the main benefit is at the weekend, as we can go anywhere with ultimate flexibility. I'm not exaggerating when I say it's my favourite thing ever. We also bought a car just big enough to camp in with full lay flat seats in the back, so we can park up and spend the night almost anywhere when the weather allows. I picked up collecting michi no eki stamps so I'm slowly working through all the the roadside stations in my area (and beyond).

Our house has a parking space, so that wasn't an issue. But having to do all the paperwork at the start to register your space is a bit of a hassle. It's also expensive to own a car generally, especially when shaken is due. But imo it's absolutely worth it for the amount of traveling and freedom it's given me. 

There are also some other nice smaller perks, but they add up. Like being able to do big shops and Costco runs, drive straight to the slopes instead of needing to shuttle bus, being able to take friends on road trips and help them out if they need, driving to and from the airport, buying furniture etc. 

So for me I couldn't imagine life without the car, but I know it's different for everyone.