In Need of a Car

[alimoalem]

I've been looking at a few cars in my price range (less than $7K) but I need some suggestions. I'll probably be keeping this for at least 4 years. I live in the Bay Area (California) if that changes anything.

Here's what would be ideal for me:
1. less than 10 years old (newer the better, obviously)
2. manual transmission
3. something that looks decent
4. has decent power
5. good mileage
6. maintenance isn't too high

I need ideas for cars that look good in this price range. Miatas don't seem practical (2-seater); Audi A4 i think would cost too much in maintenance, especially with most of them in my range with 120k+ miles; Integras...well there's too damn many of them so it gets tough looking them up on Craigslist.

Anyway, any help is appreciated. I might be able to go higher in the price, so if there's something REALLY good that's a little more expensive, just mention it.

 

[thomsbrain]

You're going to have give up at least one of those ideals. A used Accord/Camry/Civic/Corolla will be your best bet for less than $7K.

 

[alimoalem]

Originally posted by: thomsbrain
You're going to have give up at least one of those ideals. A used Accord/Camry/Civic/Corolla will be your best bet for less than $7K.

well it's just what i'd like. i mean if half the things are met, it's still fine.

i haven't really put time looking into accords. thanks for the mention

 

[Dudewithoutapet]

Supras will be over 10 years but they are pretty good. Or a newer Celica GT.

 

[Zenmervolt]

Hate to say it, but the only thing that came to mind as satisfying everything on your list was a Miata and you've ruled them out as too small.

If you can find an un-molested Accord Coupe with the manual transmission it should suit you pretty well, but it would be getting close to the 7K limit.

ZV

 

[alimoalem]

Originally posted by: Zenmervolt
Hate to say it, but the only thing that came to mind as satisfying everything on your list was a Miata and you've ruled them out as too small.

If you can find an un-molested Accord Coupe with the manual transmission it should suit you pretty well, but it would be getting close to the 7K limit.

ZV

well i haven't completely ruled the miata out. it's just i'm in college and this is going to be my only car for at least the next 2-3 years (when i graduate) so i'm not exactly sure if it will fulfill my needs. i personally don't know anyone with a miata but my understanding is people that get it already have another car.

who knows, i might get it. are there any particular years i should look for (or avoid) for Accords, Miatas, Supras, Celicas, etc.?