Shopping for a used car shouldn't feel like navigating a minefield, but let's be honest—when your budget maxes out at $5,000, it sometimes can. The good news? You don't need to resign yourself to driving something that sounds like a blender full of rocks. With some know-how and realistic expectations, you can find yourself behind the wheel of something genuinely good.

Let's crunch the numbers first. Assuming you're financing (and most people are), $5,000 translates to roughly $88 monthly payments over five years at 5% interest with no down payment. Compare that to even the cheapest new car payment, and you're looking at serious savings. But here's the reality check: at this price point, you're entering the land of high-mileage veterans and cars that predate the iPhone. That's not necessarily bad—it just means you need to shop smarter.

Some of these cars started life with $70,000 price tags. Welcome to the beautiful world of depreciation, where someone else's luxury becomes your affordable reality. Just be prepared to spend an afternoon with a vacuum cleaner when your new ride arrives.

Understanding the $5,000 Used Car Market

Before we dive into specific recommendations, let's set realistic expectations. Cars in this price range fall into several categories:

High-mileage heroes: Reliable models with 150,000+ miles that still have life left Older luxury cars: Former expensive rides that have depreciated dramatically Project-worthy finds: Cars needing some TLC but offering great potential Work trucks: Basic, no-frills vehicles built to last

The key is knowing which category you're shopping for and adjusting your expectations accordingly.

Our Top Picks for Under $5,000

Acura TSX (2004-2008)

The Sophisticated Choice

Think of the first-generation Acura TSX as the automotive equivalent of a perfectly tailored suit from an outlet store—real quality at a fraction of the original price. This car shared its DNA with the Honda Accord but received the premium treatment where it mattered most.

The sweet spot is a 2006 model with the six-speed manual transmission. That year, the high-revving VTEC four-cylinder got bumped to 205 horsepower, giving this entry-level luxury sedan genuine sporting credentials. Unlike its German competitors, the TSX came loaded with features that others charged extra for: 17-inch wheels, Bluetooth connectivity, and build quality that Honda perfected over decades.

What to look for: Service records showing regular maintenance, especially oil changes. The manual transmission models are more engaging to drive and typically better maintained by enthusiast owners.

Potential issues: The automatic transmission can be hesitant, and some interior trim pieces may show wear. Check that all electronics function properly.

Why it's great: You get genuine luxury car refinement with Honda reliability. It's sophisticated enough for business meetings yet practical enough for daily driving.

BMW 5-Series Wagon (2000-2009)

The Enthusiast's Dream

Here's a car that makes BMW purists weak at the knees: the E39 and E61 5-Series wagons. First arriving in 2000, these represent BMW at its finest—before everything got overly complicated and electronic.

You'll find two engine options that are poetry in motion: the silky 2.8-liter (later 3.0-liter) inline-six or the muscular 4.4-liter V-8. At the $5,000 price point, expect mileage approaching 200,000—but don't let that scare you. These cars were built when BMW still prioritized driving dynamics over profit margins.

Here's what makes these special: BMW stopped importing wagons for 2004-2005, and we never got the legendary M5 Touring. In 2003's peak year, only 2,351 five-series wagons found American homes. They disappeared from our shores entirely in 2009, making any survivor increasingly rare.

What to look for: Complete service records are crucial. These cars demand proper maintenance but reward it with exceptional longevity.

Potential issues: Cooling system components, particularly the plastic expansion tank. Budget for preventive maintenance.

Why it's worth it: If you find a well-maintained example, you're getting a car that was designed and built by people who genuinely cared about driving pleasure.

Buick Park Avenue Ultra (1997-2005)

The Comfort King

Don't let the badge fool you—the second-generation Park Avenue Ultra was Buick's serious attempt at building a world-class luxury sedan. The secret weapon under the hood was GM's bulletproof 3800 Series II V-6 with a supercharger, creating what we once called "one of the planet's most convincing pushrod powertrains."

This isn't just about the engine, though. The Park Avenue Ultra created a genuine luxury experience with climate control, 10-way power seats, and a pollen filter—features that were genuinely impressive for the era. Top-shelf models added a 12-disc CD changer mounted in the trunk and a head-up display that felt like space-age technology.

The best part? The handling. Despite its living-room comfort, the Park Avenue could surprise you on winding roads with composed, confident dynamics that belied its luxury sedan mission.

What to look for: The Ultra trim specifically—it has the supercharged engine and premium features. Check for signs of proper maintenance, particularly transmission services.

Potential issues: Intake manifold gaskets and occasional transmission issues if not properly maintained.

Why it's perfect: You get legitimate luxury car comfort with American simplicity and surprisingly engaging driving dynamics.

Ford F-150 (1997-2003)

The Practical Hero

Sometimes the smartest choice isn't the most exciting one. While everyone dreams of daily-driving a sports car, the reality is that pickup truck versatility wins out for most people's actual needs. The 10th-generation F-150, launched in 1997, marked Ford's departure from purely square styling toward something more aerodynamic and modern.

This generation represents the sweet spot for $5,000 truck shopping. With some diligence, finding a decent V-8, four-wheel-drive example isn't impossible. The key is geographic shopping—stick to southern classifieds to avoid rust-bucket body panels, but not too far south where four-wheel-drive models become scarce.

One maintenance note: check whether the two-piece spark plugs have been replaced. They have a tendency to break during removal, but don't panic if they do—there's a tool for every problem.

What to look for: Service records, especially evidence of regular oil changes. Four-wheel-drive models for versatility.

Potential issues: Spark plug replacement can be tricky. Check for rust if buying from salt states.

Why it makes sense: Unmatched versatility, solid reliability, and the ability to handle anything life throws at you.

Ford Ranger (1998-2011)

The Urban Warrior

Here's a radical concept: a pickup truck you can actually park in the city. The last-generation Ford Ranger represents something we've lost in today's truck market—a genuinely compact pickup that prioritizes function over ego.

This truck is refreshingly honest. It doesn't need running boards because it's not seven feet tall. It doesn't need a step-ladder to reach the tailgate. It comes in single or extended cab configurations, with either an efficient four-cylinder or a more powerful V-6, paired with your choice of automatic or manual transmission.

This is how pickup trucks worked for nearly a century before every guy decided he needed to drive something the size of a small apartment building.

What to look for: The V-6 engine for better power, but the four-cylinder for better fuel economy. Manual transmission models often show better care.

Potential issues: Early models had rear-only ABS or none at all. Check brake system carefully.

Bonus points: Finding a yellow Ranger Splash with original decals intact makes you automatically cool.

Honda Accord (1998-2007)

The Overachiever

There's a reason Car and Driver has honored the Accord with 10Best awards for 34 consecutive years. This isn't marketing hyperbole—it reflects genuine excellence in engineering, reliability, and driving dynamics that transcends its mainstream mission.

The seventh-generation Accord (2003-2007) won comparison tests in its debut year and, unlike forgotten competitors like the Saturn L200 and Dodge Stratus, actually survived to tell the tale. The EX coupe brought a 240-horsepower V-6 with a six-speed manual that transformed this family sedan into something genuinely exciting.

Even the four-cylinder models introduced Honda's i-VTEC system with cam phasing, delivering both efficiency and performance. Honda also experimented with a V-6 hybrid from 2005-2007 that was impressively quick but commercially unsuccessful.

What to look for: Maintenance records showing regular care. The V-6 models offer more personality.

Potential issues: Automatic transmission issues in some V-6 models. Check operation carefully.

Why it's essential: Proven reliability, engaging driving dynamics, and parts availability that ensures long-term ownership viability.

Honda Insight (2000-2006)

The Efficiency Pioneer

This suggestion might seem to contradict everything we've said about practical used car shopping, but hear us out. The original Honda Insight was an engineering marvel built around a simple premise: maximum efficiency through minimum weight.

Approximately 600% of the Insight's structure (okay, we're exaggerating, but not by much) was aluminum, meaning you'll never see a rusty Insight. The original American hybrid still ranks among today's most efficient vehicles with an EPA highway rating of 61 mpg and over 400 miles of range per tank.

Strangely, Honda didn't offer cruise control—apparently, they expected drivers to maintain speed through pure willpower.

What to look for: Battery condition is crucial. Check for smooth electric motor operation.

Potential issues: Hybrid battery replacement can be expensive but isn't always necessary.

Why it works: Minimal maintenance costs, exceptional fuel economy, and aluminum construction that laughs at corrosion.

Infiniti J30 (1993-1997)

The Secret Sports Sedan

Nissan never built a four-door 300ZX, but the Infiniti J30 came remarkably close. Using the same 205-horsepower 3.0-liter V-6 from the non-turbo sports car, it also borrowed the fantastic multilink suspension that gave this luxury sedan genuine sports car control.

The J30T Touring model represents the sweet spot with its subtle trunk spoiler, aluminum BBS-mesh wheels, and Bose stereo that delivered impressive sound quality for the era. Heated leather seats added luxury comfort to the snug but well-appointed interior.

What to look for: The Touring trim specifically. Test every power window and door handle—common failure points.

Potential issues: Electrical gremlins can develop, particularly with power accessories.

Why it's special: Sports car dynamics in luxury sedan packaging, with unique styling that still looks distinctive today.

Infiniti M35 Sport (2006-2010)

The BMW Fighter

Finding a legitimate M-badged BMW in good condition for under $5,000 requires either extraordinary luck or a willingness to accept extraordinary problems. The Infiniti M35 Sport offers a more realistic path to sports sedan excellence.

A 2007 M35 Sport in this price range might show 145,000 miles, but it comes loaded with features: 19-inch wheels, leather-appointed interior, heated and cooled seats, and a 275-horsepower V-6 that delivered 0-60 times just 0.2 seconds slower than the more powerful M45.

Back in 2006, the M45 Sport actually defeated sports sedan legends like the BMW 550i and Mercedes E550 thanks to its "excellent chassis" and "playful spirit." The M35 retains that winning formula with slightly less power but significantly more affordability.

What to look for: Service records showing proper maintenance. These are complex cars that demand attention.

Potential issues: The infotainment system is hopelessly outdated. Some electrical components may need attention.

Why it delivers: Genuine sports sedan dynamics with luxury features, proving that Infiniti understood the assignment.

Jeep Cherokee XJ (1984-2001)

The Disposable Hero

The XJ-series Cherokee earns the "disposable hero" designation for good reason. "Disposable" because $5,000 buys anything from a pristine, never-been-off-road example to a battle-scarred, lifted, adventure-ready machine. "Hero" because with proper maintenance, it will outlast your children while going anywhere you point it.

Models with the legendary high-output 4.0-liter straight-six (introduced in 1991) are preferred, with later 1990s examples representing the pinnacle of Cherokee development. The aftermarket support is enormous, meaning any Cherokee you buy can become the Cherokee you dream of.

What to look for: The 4.0-liter engine, service records, and minimal rust (check carefully).

Potential issues: Oil leaks and cooling system maintenance are crucial. Rust can be terminal.

Why it's legendary: Unmatched capability, infinite customization potential, and a community of enthusiasts who keep knowledge and parts flowing.

Lexus LS400 (1990-2000)

The German Fighter

While the Acura Legend was the first Japanese luxury car in America, the LS400 was the moon shot that changed everything. Toyota aimed directly at German luxury sedans, created a V-8 specifically for this car, loaded it with premium features, and priced it at $35,000—when comparable Mercedes S-Class models started past $50,000.

The styling borrowed from European design language but has aged gracefully. In today's SUV-dominated landscape, the LS400 looks low and elegant rather than outdated.

What to look for: Timing belt service records (crucial), and hope the starter hasn't failed—it's buried deep in the engine.

Potential issues: Timing belt maintenance is non-negotiable. Starter replacement is expensive.

Why it's worth it: The reliability and refinement that established the Lexus brand, available at a fraction of the original cost.

Mazda Miata NB2 (2001-2005)

The Pure Sports Car

Maybe the Miata is too small for your needs, but if it isn't, nothing else comes close. The NB2 chassis represents the most desirable first-generation evolution, with improved projector headlights, additional chassis bracing, and an engine featuring higher compression and variable valve timing.

It's light, fun, affordable to maintain, and features aluminum components that resist corrosion. This might be the cheapest path to maximum entertainment on track days or weekend canyon runs.

What to look for: Maintenance records, especially timing belt service. Check for accident damage.

Potential issues: Soft-top replacement eventually becomes necessary. Some electrical gremlins in later models.

Why it's perfect: Pure driving pleasure in its most distilled form, with a supportive community and endless modification potential.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class W140 (1992-1999)

The Technological Tour de Force

When the W140 S-Class arrived in 1991, it shocked the automotive world. Larger, heavier, and far more complex than its predecessor, it wasn't cheap—a six-cylinder 300SE started near $70,000, while the V-12 exceeded $120,000 in 1992 dollars.

The engineering was extraordinary: double-paned side glass, adaptive dampers, guidance antennas that emerged from the rear fenders to help with parking, and near-silence at highway speeds. This sophistication and complexity has driven values down to tiny fractions of original cost.

What to look for: Complete service records are essential. These are complex cars requiring specialist knowledge.

Potential issues: Everything is expensive to fix. Budget accordingly.

Why it's tempting: You get to experience automotive engineering at its most ambitious, just prepare for the maintenance reality.

Nissan Pathfinder (1996-2004)

The Adventure-Ready SUV

Finding a pristine Pathfinder with reasonable mileage requires patience, but the combination of four-wheel drive, five-speed manual transmission, and 3,500-pound towing capacity makes the search worthwhile. It's also perfectly suited for overlanding setups.

Every Pathfinder from this era features the seemingly bulletproof 168-horsepower 3.3-liter V-6 and multilink rear suspension. Mid-level SE trims add driver seat adjustments, remote keyless entry, roof rack, and tubular step rails.

What to look for: Manual transmission models, service records, and minimal rust.

Potential issues: Timing belt service is crucial. Check for transmission fluid leaks.

Why it works: Genuine capability without modern complexity, plus the reliability that made Nissan's reputation.

Ram 2500 (1994-2002)

The Diesel Hero

Second-generation Dodge Rams that haven't completely oxidized are increasingly rare, but they're worth the search. These trucks aged better visually than their contemporaries and offer rugged functionality.

The holy grail is a heavy-duty 2500 or 3500 with the Cummins 6BT inline-six, known as the "12-valve." This turbo-diesel is legendary for robust durability and no-nonsense strength. At the $5,000 price point, you're more likely finding gasoline 5.2- or 5.9-liter V-8 models.

What to look for: Cummins diesel if possible, but don't overlook well-maintained V-8 models.

Potential issues: Vacuum-actuated four-wheel drive can be finicky. Rust is the main enemy.

Why it's special: Distinctive styling that hasn't aged, plus genuine truck capability for work or recreation.

Subaru Baja (2003-2006)

The Quirky Favorite

The Subaru Baja deserves pointing out and admiring whenever spotted. This Outback wagon-turned-truck only lasted three years but remains a quirky favorite. The Baja Turbo used a detuned version of the Impreza WRX STI's 2.5-liter turbo engine and came with a five-speed manual.

Unfortunately, the used car market hasn't quite brought Bajas into $5,000 territory yet, even in non-turbo form. Think of it as a modern automotive mullet—business in front, party in back.

What to look for: Turbo models if budget allows, but any Baja is interesting.

Potential issues: Head gasket issues typical of Subaru boxer engines.

Why it matters: Unique functionality with all-wheel drive capability and small truck utility.

Toyota Sequoia (2001-2007)

The Full-Size Family Hauler

Despite gas prices that make your wallet weep, the first-generation Sequoia remains compelling. Built in Indiana, 2005-and-later models represent the best of the bunch with improved drivetrains.

While towing capacity matches competitors like the Tahoe and Expedition (6,500 pounds in two-wheel-drive form), the Sequoia offers 10.6 inches of ground clearance. Finding a 2005-or-newer Sequoia under $5,000 means accepting high mileage and basic trim levels, but these trucks seem to ignore normal aging rules.

What to look for: 2005-or-later models, service records, and reasonable mileage.

Potential issues: Fuel consumption is significant. Check for maintenance compliance.

Why it works: Think of it as buying a vehicle with 15 years and 200,000 miles of proven experience.

Volvo S70 (1998-2000)

The Safety Fortress

According to one passionate owner, there's no safer, better-built car on this list. Mechanically identical to the 1993 850 but with softened styling that aged better, the S70 represents Swedish engineering excellence.

The interior quality surpasses many modern cars—even the glovebox features soft, padded surfaces. Remember, this was among the first cars with side-impact airbags and anti-whiplash seats. The cabin heater works better than anything else on the car.

What to look for: Service records, particularly timing belt maintenance. Check electrical systems.

Potential issues: Some electrical components fail over time, but the car remains fundamentally solid.

Why it's guaranteed: Exceptional build quality, safety features ahead of their time, and surprising resale value in certain markets.

A Used Car Dealer's Perspective: The Real Talk About Buying Under $5,000

From the desk of Mike Rodriguez, 15 years in the used car business

Let me give you the straight truth about shopping for cars under $5,000—something you won't hear from someone trying to sell you a $30,000 SUV. I've been in this business for fifteen years, and I've seen everything from miracle finds to absolute disasters. Here's what I wish every buyer knew before they stepped on my lot.

The Reality Check Nobody Wants to Give You

First, let's address the elephant in the room: at $5,000, you're not buying a car—you're buying someone else's problem that hopefully isn't too big of a problem yet. That sounds harsh, but understanding this changes your entire approach to shopping.

Every car on my lot under $5,000 is there for a reason. Maybe the owner got tired of repairs. Maybe they needed something more reliable for a new job. Maybe they just wanted something newer. The key is figuring out which reason applies to the car you're considering.

The Categories I See Every Day

The High-Mileage Heroes: These are the cars with 150,000 to 200,000+ miles that look rough but run strong. Usually, these are work trucks, commuter cars driven by people who actually maintained them, or cars from older folks who barely drove them. These can be goldmines if you know what to look for.

The Neglected Luxuries: Former expensive cars that have been owned by people who couldn't afford to maintain them properly. These are dangerous territory for most buyers. That Mercedes S-Class might seem like a steal until you need to replace the air suspension system for $3,000.

The Project Cars: Vehicles needing work that the current owner either can't or won't complete. Sometimes these represent opportunities, but only if you have realistic expectations about time and cost.

The Fleet Vehicles: Former rental cars, taxi cabs, or company vehicles. These have lived hard lives but often have maintenance records. Approach with caution but don't automatically dismiss them.

What I Look For When I'm Buying for My Lot

When I'm at auctions or looking at trade-ins, here's my mental checklist:

Service Records: A folder full of maintenance receipts tells me more about a car than anything else. I've seen 200,000-mile Toyotas that will run another 100,000 miles because someone changed the oil religiously. I've also seen 80,000-mile BMWs that are ticking time bombs because of deferred maintenance.

The Owner's Story: How they talk about the car tells me everything. Someone who knows their car's quirks and can explain exactly what's been done is usually someone who cared about it. Someone who says "it just needs a tune-up" to fix multiple problems is someone to avoid.

Visual Inspection: I look for rust, accident damage, and signs of flooding. A car that's been maintained cosmetically usually suggests someone who cared about mechanical maintenance too.

The Test Drive: I don't just drive it around the block. I test every electrical component, listen for unusual noises, check that the transmission shifts smoothly, and see how it handles highway speeds.

The Pros of Buying Under $5,000

Low Depreciation: At this price point, the car has already taken its biggest depreciation hit. If you buy smart, you might actually break even or lose very little when you sell.

Lower Insurance Costs: You can drop collision coverage if the car's not worth much, significantly reducing insurance premiums.

Cash Purchase Options: Many people can buy outright, eliminating monthly payments and interest charges.

Learning Opportunities: Working on an older, simpler car teaches you automotive basics without risking a massive investment.

Character: These cars have personality and stories. Modern cars are appliances; these older vehicles have soul.

The Cons You Need to Accept

Maintenance Frequency: Expect something to need attention every few months. Budget $100-200 monthly for maintenance and repairs.

Reliability Questions: You'll have that nagging worry about whether the car will start on important days. Keep a backup plan.

Safety Compromises: Older cars lack modern safety features like stability control, multiple airbags, and crumple zones.

Fuel Economy: Most cars in this price range predate modern efficiency standards. Budget accordingly.

Limited Warranty Protection: You're buying "as-is" in most cases. Any problems become your problems immediately.

My Honest Advice for Different Situations

For College Students: Stick with Honda Civics, Toyota Corollas, or similar economy cars. They're boring but reliable, parts are cheap, and any mechanic can work on them.

For Families: Consider a higher-mileage Honda Odyssey or Toyota Sienna rather than an SUV. Minivans depreciate faster but offer more space and usually better maintenance histories.

For DIY Enthusiasts: German cars can be great values if you're willing to work on them yourself. Parts are expensive, but the engineering is generally solid.

For Work Use: Pickup trucks hold their value best and offer the most utility. Even high-mileage examples can provide years of service if properly maintained.

Red Flags That Send Me Running

No Service Records: If someone can't produce any maintenance documentation, walk away. Cars this old require consistent care.

Too Good to Be True Prices: If a car is priced significantly below market value, there's usually a reason. Hidden damage, liens, or mechanical problems are common culprits.

Multiple Previous Owners: Cars that have changed hands frequently often have ongoing issues that frustrated previous owners.

Fresh Paint or Interior Work: Sometimes this indicates accident damage or attempts to cover up problems.

Seller Pressure: Anyone pushing for an immediate decision without allowing proper inspection is hiding something.

Questions Every Buyer Should Ask

1. "Why are you selling this car?" (Listen for hesitation or vague answers)
2. "What maintenance has been done recently?" (Specific answers are good)
3. "What problems does it have currently?" (Honest sellers will admit to known issues)
4. "Can I take it to my mechanic for inspection?" (Refusal is a red flag)
5. "What would you fix if you were keeping it?" (Often reveals known problems)

The Negotiation Reality

At the $5,000 price point, there's usually limited negotiating room. Most dealers have maybe $500-800 of wiggle room, and private sellers often have even less. Instead of focusing on price reduction, negotiate for included services like oil changes, inspections, or minor repairs.

Financing Considerations

If you need financing, understand that loans for older, high-mileage cars often carry higher interest rates and shorter terms. Credit unions typically offer better rates than dealerships for used car loans. Some cars in this price range don't qualify for traditional auto loans, forcing buyers into personal loans with even higher rates.

The Maintenance Budget Reality

Here's what I tell every customer: budget $2,000 annually for maintenance and repairs on any car in this price range. Some years you'll spend less, some years more, but this average will keep you prepared. Major repairs like transmission or engine work can total more than the car's value, so having an exit strategy is crucial.

Finding the Right Car for Your Situation

High-Mileage Highway Cars: Look for cars owned by commuters who drove mostly highway miles. These are often in better condition than low-mileage city cars.

One-Owner Vehicles: Cars owned by a single person, especially older owners, often show better care and maintenance.

Local Market Knowledge: Understanding your local market helps identify good values. Cars are cheaper in certain regions due to climate, economy, or preferences.

Timing Your Purchase: Shopping during certain seasons (winter for convertibles, summer for 4WD vehicles) can yield better prices.

When to Walk Away

Sometimes the best deal is the one you don't make. If a car needs more than $2,000 in immediate repairs, if the seller won't allow inspection, or if your gut says something's wrong, listen to that instinct. There are always other cars, but there's only one you.

The Bottom Line from Someone Who's Been There

Buying a car under $5,000 requires patience, realistic expectations, and a willingness to accept that you're buying transportation, not perfection. The best purchases in this price range come from understanding exactly what you're getting into and planning accordingly.

I've seen people get five great years from $3,000 Honda Accords, and I've seen people spend $8,000 trying to fix $4,000 BMW problems. The difference wasn't the cars—it was the buyers' understanding of what they were purchasing.

Do your homework, inspect thoroughly, budget for maintenance, and remember that the cheapest car to buy isn't always the cheapest car to own. But when you find the right car at the right price with realistic expectations, these older vehicles can provide reliable, affordable transportation while teaching you valuable lessons about automotive ownership.

The key is approaching this purchase as an informed consumer rather than someone hoping to get lucky. Luck helps, but knowledge and preparation matter more.

Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice

Shopping for used cars under $5,000 requires balancing dreams with reality, hopes with hard facts. The vehicles on this list represent the best combinations of reliability, value, and character available at this price point, but success depends largely on finding the right individual example.

Remember that at this price range, you're buying a specific car rather than just a model. A well-maintained 200,000-mile Toyota will serve you better than a neglected 100,000-mile anything else. Service records matter more than mileage. Character and quirks come with the territory.

Whether you choose the sophisticated TSX, the practical F-150, the efficient Insight, or any other vehicle on this list, approach the purchase with realistic expectations, a healthy maintenance budget, and the understanding that these cars represent affordable transportation rather than perfect reliability.

The right car is out there—it just takes patience, knowledge, and realistic expectations to find it. Happy hunting, and remember: the best used car is the one that gets you where you need to go while teaching you something about automotive character along the way.