Best used cars for $5,000 or under?

[Brian]

I really need to replace my old Ranger pretty soon and I don’t exactly have a lot of cash so which used vehicles would you guys recommend for $5,000 or under? I was interested in the Hyundai Accent, but I keep reading reviews and articles saying to “stay away” or “you get what you pay for” when it comes to Hyundai. I’d like to stick with a 4 cylinder with an automatic and I’m 6’5″ and not exactly on the skinny side so there’s that to take into consideration as well. I wouldn’t mind getting another Ranger, but I’m looking for something that gets better than just 20-23 mpg (though if I had to get another 4 cylinder truck or SUV it wouldn’t be the end of the world either). I’d really appreciate any advice you guys could throw my way.

Topic

[Sean]

Coupe? Family car? Hyundai used to be crappy in the before 90’s, but now they are alright.

My favorite cars under 4k: Fiero, MR2, Nissan’s, Genesis coupe, Celica GT-S 86′, Tiburon 4-cyl, and of course the Miata.

These are fun but cheap cars. If you want easy to repair: anything of Honda is easy, and Toyota’s (although the ones ive seen are cramped) are well thought out. Don’t get GM for workability.

Family cars: Accent (is alright after 90′), Altima, Camry/Corolla, and maybe a Ford Fusion, Honda Accord.

Anything else you want to specify, I can do some quick research on the car. 😀

[William]

Any price is really hard to say because we have no reference for what you’re asking. If you’re getting a 1993 Malibu with 350K miles on it, you’re probably spending too much. If you’re getting a 2003 Yukon SLT, you may be getting a steal (disregarding gas prices).

The amount you’re willing to spend doesn’t define the value of the car you’re looking for. You’ll just have to shop around and let us know what you’re looking at. Inspect every detail and take a car for a few test drives, then ask yourself (and/or us) if it’s a good car for $5,000 or less. 🙂

Don’t rush it. Make sure you get the car you want.

[Author]

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