I'm going to second the late 80's early 90's 3 series BMWs known as the E30
I have $1800 invested in my 90 4 door.. the 6cylinder of the E30s is like the 22R Toyota truck engines.
They consistently drive 200K+ miles.
And I get great gas mileage.
I can find you early 90's E30s in the 2-3K range all day long. As a matter of fact a friend has an 89 convertible
for sale for $2500 and it's just had all the regular maintenance.
What part of the country are you located in?
The problem most people have when looking at used cars is they know nothing about working on them and just look at the exterior.
i.e. if it's pretty it must be good.
Whenever shopping used cars the mechanics are the only thing that's important.
I'd take a crappy looking car that runs great and I know has a history of longevity over a nice looking exterior anyday.
First thing you need is a mechanic that you know and trust.. then take ANY used car you are considering to them to look over.
As far as trucks... I wouldn't put a late 80's early 90's Toyota 4cyl 22r out of my mind.
You can get great gas mileage and they are tanks.
Hondas while there are plenty of them in the 1-2K range I'd consider a throw away car.
A good BMW or Toyota are the kind of cars and trucks that you keep forever.
*edited to add*..
Hey Nick,
You still in KC? If so look on the Kansas side towards KCK and stay away from Johnson County and the Missouri side. Cars were a little more expensive on the Missouri side when I lived there anyway for some reason.
Well if you are the afore mentioned friend lives in Wichita. The car is available now.. though won't last.
If not PM me.. I can help you find a solid 3series.. and would be happy to give you a hand if it needed a little maintenance.
BMWs have a reputation for a reason. For every "I've been told" story I could send you to a forum of thousands that swear by them.
E30's that is.. after 1992 it's a different animal
