I need a car that is good on gas. What car can I buy with around $5000 used of course?

Question

I was thinking a Honda or a Toyota. What should I get?

Answer 1

Saturn (only if it has low miles) made a few cars that were good for high 30s.

Many trim levels of Civic get high 30s. As can the Corolla.

Also consider the Ford Escort (those will top out at 5000) or a late
(after 1998) Dodge Neon.

The Mazda Protege is basically the same as the Escort, but usually with slightly better build quality.

The Nissan Sentra is decent, but I find the experience to be underwhelming.

Also, the Mitsubishi Mirage.


The best of everything (economy, handling, reliability) would be the Civic. The problem with the Civic is getting one that hasn't been abused, especially in that price range. Do NOT buy a Civic if it has been modified in any way. No exhaust tips, no air intakes, nothing. Too many idiots badly modify them and then drive the hell out of them. Just don't do it. Also they're more likely to get stolen. The same applies to the Acura Integra (which is basically the same as the Civic).

The Corolla would be second best, but without the modification/theft problem.

ANY of these cars would probably suit your needs. Just remember, the American makes and the Mitsubishi should be lower miles for the same price as the others.

DO NOT buy a Cavalier or Sunfire.

If you want something which is more high-20s/low 30s, but a lot more fun, and at least as reliable, get a Miata.

Nowadays, with fuel prices rising, efficient cars are in demand, so you won't be able to negotiate downwards very much.

And finally, in this price range, don't bother even looking at dealers. There are some decent ones out there, but they're just going to dick you around. Shop only for private sellers.

Answer 2

If you are looking for foreign I suppose they are good. I on the other hand would go with a good Dodge Aries, Chrysler K Car and Saturns. They are all pretty decent on gas but you need to factor in maintenance too.

Disclaimer; I am biased I love Volvo's they are good but only the older ones. Having said that foreign parts are a nightmare to come by especially for older cars
The mileage on a used car is a variable factor-it will never be what it was when it was first driven off the lot but maintenance is not. You want a car where the parts are cheap and if possible you can do it yourself-things like change the fuses, add oil, change wiper blades, etc. Cheap tires pricewise not quality wise are also a bonus. Never skimp on tires-think of them as your legs-every time i bought a used car i saved some money for a new set of tires that is five-4 to go & 1 mounted as a spare ready to go at a moments notice. Usually you can get a good discount.

Ultimately the car you pick will be your choice; your style will be a huge factor. I happen to love old American cars because any back yard mechanic can help you fix them-uncles, granpdpa, etc.

Hope this helps.

Answer 3

I have had the same Honda station wagon for 23 years and
in all that time I've only replaced a couple of tires, some
windshield wipers, an exhaust pipe and a couple of batteries.
It still has the original paint,which is pretty good. It has 237
thousand miles on it and starts every morning like clockwork.
For 5,000 you should be able to get a good one....just make
sure it has a recently re-built engine and all the paper work
regarding repairs. I love my old Honda and wouldn't trade
it for a C-8 La Violette. It gets 30 MPG and good pick-up
and I've driven it across country recently with no problems
at all. Get a Honda.

Answer 4

5 grand?? That's more than I've paid for my last 4 cars combined!! When you get a foriegn car you will get to pay foriegn car repair prices. I did that once with a VW, and learned the lesson well.

Personally I prefer something like a ford focus or a ford festiva to either one. Both are fairly low cost and cheap to maintain. When I sold used cars I noticed that the chevy v 6's could take a considerable beating and still stay running. My oldest son is driving the most recent 2.8L v6 between Kansas City and Gilette Wyoming once a week.

Answer 5

Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla

Answer 6

I purchased an Acura for $1000 on ebay and was very pleased with it. You have to do your research. I bought the thirty day carfax report for about $30 to help. I looked at several vehicles that had been in accidents and even some that had odometer rollbacks. You are looking at two quality brands and will probably see many reasonable choices. I also like Subaru's and Honda makes Acura's. Happy hunting.

Answer 7

Old reliable small 4 cyl(have good mechanic check them out) toyota or honda is your best bet. Expect >100K miles at $5K price. Also, a good reliable mechanic giving a trustworthy opinion matters alot (unless of course you are a good mechanic)

Answer 8

id get a used celica they do prety good on gas and have the nice racey feel to them (if you get one get standerd awsome cars)

Answer 9

yes.... 2000 or so either Civic or Corolla - should be good for 30 mpg (US gallon) or so if in good condition.

Answer 10

Volvo.