Mountain Gear has been using the same machines to make its name brand clothing for the last five years. A cost efficiency consultant has suggested that production costs may be reduced by purchasing more technologically advanced machinery. The old machines cost the company $300,000. The old machines presently have a book value of $130,000 and a market value of $22,000. They are expected to have a five-year remaining life and zero salvage value. The new machines would cost the company $200,000 and have operating expenses of $19,000 a year. The new machines are expected to have a five-year useful life and no salvage value. The operating expenses associated with the old machines are $40,000 a year. The new machines are expected to increase quality, justifying a price increase, and thereby increasing sales revenue by $20,000 a year. Select the true statement.

a. The company will be $27,000 better off over the 5-year period if it replaces the old equipment.

b. The company will be $38,000 better off over the 5-year period if it replaces the old equipment.

c. The company will be $60,000 better off over the 5-year period if it keeps the old equipment.

d. The company will be $22,000 better off over the 5-year period if it replaces the old equipment.