Best used car for under $7000?

[darkshadow1]

Hey everyone, I'm looking around the Philadelphia area for a good used car for under $7000...I need it mainly to commute for about an hour a day, three times a week. I'm looking at 96-98 Galants, Accords and such but a sporty coupe would suit me just as well. Any general recommendations on what to try to get / avoid?

Also, I've been trying to secure a used car loan from peoplefirst.com and lendingtree.com but both denied me...most likely since I don't have a very long credit record (I'm 20). I'm going to try my bank and a local credit union, but does anyone know of any other good ways to secure about $7000 in a loan? Thanks!

 

[Vette73]

I would look at a FWD Impala. They come with a 3.8L V-6. Great all round cars.

 

[RossMAN]

If you can find a mid to late 90's Honda Accord for $7,000 that's in good shape then buy it, but they really hold their value so good luck.

If you've already been declined twice, that's two inquiries on your credit report, keep applying for new loans and your credit score will continue to suffer. The best way is to get a co-signer if you can find a family member or friend who's willing to co-sign with you, it's a big risk for them and they'll have to trust you with their credit history. If you make a single late payment it will be reflected poorly on THEIR credit report and YOURS.

 

[Cyberian]

At least consider a '99 Chevy Prizm.
Basically the same car as a Toyota Corolla, with Chevy badges.

 

[goodoptics]

Late 90's model Honda Civic EX 5-speed.

 

[GasX]

Originally posted by: goodoptics
Late 90's model Honda Civic EX 5-speed.

For $7000 you'd have to look at a early to mid 90's Civic EX Coupe.

Have you asked your parents to cosign the loan?

 

[darkshadow1]

Thanks for all the replies..

If I can't get a loan from my local bank then I will ask my parents to cosign with me...I'd rather not but I guess it'll be better that way. Two specific cars that I've come across are a 97 Galant w/ 39k miles for $6500, and a 98 Camry w/ 60k miles for $9000. I was thinking maybe a 97-98 Maxima or Altima...I've been looking at Accords but for $7000 they're either older than 97 or have more than 80k miles.

And wow...I looked at the TMV of a Prizm...that's nice and loooow for Corolla-quality.

Edit: Also, has anyone had any experience with buying a car off ebay? I came across this and found it interesting...