Where's the cutoff point on mileage where you just say, "Too many miles." ?
If it's under 200K, how much are they asking? I bought my Toyota Camry used for $1300 almost five years ago with 170,000 miles on it. It's now at 214,000. And I've had very little trouble with it over those years. If you only want a car for five years or so you could easily buy a high mileage car. If you wanted to keep it for longer...I'll let someone more knowledgable than me take that one. Low 100,000s would be my guess.
For what it's worth, I'm 5'11" and have been very happy w/ my 4 door Toyota Camry. Reliable, good gas mileage, starts in any weather (no small concern in MN & ND) and fun to drive. It ain't sexy, especially now that it's rusty, but it gets the job done. If you don't know how to drive a stick, it would be worth learning. Some times you need a car and the only option is a stick. Knowing how to drive one gives you more flexibility. One minor consideration, as a college student moving my stuff around a lot I've found it's easier to pack your car full with 4 doors than with 2.
Small pickup with 4-cyl engine, 5-speed manual, ext cab. 2WD.
I agree. I'm 6'1" and had an '89 ford ranger as a first vehicle. It filled the position.
I know a lot of people that liked the second (started late '80s I think) and third generation of dodge dakotas. I currently have a quad cab (family now) and has been good.
Extended cab for sure for your hieght. It is amazing how much extra leg room you get out of this.
These smaller pickups don't do bad on gas, but they aren't gett 40 mpg either.