I would look for as old used car that you can stand to drive. In the first 3 years most cars deperciate at a very fast rate. check the Consumers Reports for reliable used cars. Consider the future stability of the manufactor. The older the car the less the future of the manufactor matters. Mostly older Janpanese cars are more reliable but also have not depreciated as much. The newer American cars 2005 and up) are closing the gap. The 100,000 mile waranty on Korean cars and somewhat lower prices with improved quality make them favorable in later models. My favorites are Toyota (most expensive) and small Ford products. I drive a 1996 Ford Aspire 4 cylinder with 5 speed manual. I average 34 mpg in local driving. This car cost me $1100 last year and I have had no problems at all.
