YACT: What car, new or used, for around or under $25k

misle

Diamond Member
Nov 30, 2000
3,371
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76
I'm graduating college in December and as soon as I get a job lined up, I need to get a new car (at least new to me). My 1996 Lumina (which I've never liked) has to go.

I've mainly been looking at hatchback/wagons, but I'm open to sedans as well.
 

Aves

Lifer
Feb 7, 2001
12,232
30
101
If I were getting a hatchback I'd get a 5-Door Mazda3 SP23 or a Saab 9-2X (assuming you can still get an employee discount).
 

nakedfrog

No Lifer
Apr 3, 2001
63,071
19,388
136
Definitely get a hatch/wagon if you're partial to them, as the practicality is great.
 

misle

Diamond Member
Nov 30, 2000
3,371
0
76
I was really looking into the Mazda 3 Hatch and the Pontiac Vibe/Toyota Matrix. But then a friend mentioned that she would get a 2-3 year old "nice" car. Such as something that originally sold for $40-60k. After looking around on AutoTrader.com, I definitely can find some $40k+ cars used for $25k. And I've never owned a new car, so I have no problem buying used.

Also, I have never looked into $40-60k cars because I can't afford them, but used I can...oh, the decisions.
 

purbeast0

No Lifer
Sep 13, 2001
53,666
6,547
126
2001 m3

/thread

(thats what I plan to get in about a year once I turn 25 and my insurance drops)
 

Calin

Diamond Member
Apr 9, 2001
3,112
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But $40k cars will cost a small fortune to fix (or maybe a bigger fortune). Also, it will cost you more in other areas.
I have nothing against 2nd hand expensive cars, just consider extra prices you might need (or might not need) to pay
 

randomlinh

Lifer
Oct 9, 1999
20,846
2
0
linh.wordpress.com
you know, i used to want an m3. but after sitting in the interior of pre 2000 bmw's... the interior just feels old (not as in for old ppl, but it just looks so dated). dunno about the new ones. i got a new car.. it'll be the only time i probably will :)
 

thomsbrain

Lifer
Dec 4, 2001
18,148
1
0
Originally posted by: lnguyen
you know, i used to want an m3. but after sitting in the interior of pre 2000 bmw's... the interior just feels old (not as in for old ppl, but it just looks so dated). dunno about the new ones. i got a new car.. it'll be the only time i probably will :)

even the news ones are like, "this is what people get excited about?"