YACT: I've got a budget and constraints, need ideas.

amicold

Platinum Member
Feb 7, 2005
2,656
1
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Well, my old car was totaled in a wreck during the storm that wreaked havoc on the Buffalo area last weekend. It was a 2000 Malibu LS, ran great, loaded. Since it's been totaled I need a new DD. I have roughly $5500 to play with, and I'm looking for a another DD. Midsize or larger preferred, power is nice, reliability, etc. Ideas? Thanks in advance.
 

jlee

Lifer
Sep 12, 2001
48,518
223
106
Originally posted by: ncircle
get awd or 4wd.
its almost a must up here in the northeast for us.

FWD is great in snow.

I love my 4x4, though. :)
 

sniperruff

Lifer
Apr 17, 2002
11,644
2
0
$5500 is not much. i'd say late 90's or early 00's nissan altima/mits galant. both are pretty reliable cars that have low resell value.
 

spaceman

Lifer
Dec 4, 2000
17,616
183
106
Originally posted by: CadetLee
Originally posted by: ncircle
get awd or 4wd.
its almost a must up here in the northeast for us.

FWD is great in snow.

I love my 4x4, though. :)

my galant didnt seem to be.
atfer that accident there will be nothing but 4wd or awd purchased.
im up in the berkshire hills tho.
 

desy

Diamond Member
Jan 13, 2000
5,446
214
106
Any GM with the 3800 engine EG a Buick, large reliable, comfortable
Good on gas and reliable powertrain.
 

RalphTheCow

Senior member
Sep 14, 2000
963
380
136
Geo or Chevy Prizm - a Toyota without the expensive name. A mid size Honda or Toyota will be tough for $5500, so I agree with Altima. Oh, and private owner instead of used car dealer - much more hassle but worth it if you find a good single owner, which is of course difficult at this price and age.
 

amicold

Platinum Member
Feb 7, 2005
2,656
1
81
Originally posted by: XZeroII
what is a DD?

Daily driver. Thanks for the suggestions, I want something with the 3800 engine in it. I like the Regal, especially the GS, but they're tough to find at least in my searches.
 

amicold

Platinum Member
Feb 7, 2005
2,656
1
81
Originally posted by: AgaBoogaBoo
Are there any brands you like or want to avoid?

Nope, nothing crazy like Kia or Daewoo. But other than that I'm open. Just an all around reasonable car with a bit of power and comfortability.