I’ve always been cheap when it comes to cars, as long as it has the basic necessities (A/C and Radio) I’ve been happy. A few weeks ago I picked up a 2019 Versa (5 speed) with 49K miles on it from my credit union’s repo lot for 10K; the credit union also offered .99% interest so overall I feel pretty good about the purchase. The simplicity and efficiency has me in straight econobox nirvana and was wondering if there are other weirdos out there like me who just love a good bare bones car that does one thing and one thing only, going from A to B.
They’re usually small, light, and can be commonly found with a manual transmission, so they can be a blast to drive around. Also, your definition of necessities is different than mine, the windows go down for a reason, right? :)
Drive slow car fast better than fast car slow.
This principle is why I would love to have a kei car. Need to put all your driving skills at max to keep with traffic. Sounds like a fun idea for the few that actually like driving cars.
I drive a 63 year old econocar, a 1960 Rambler American. With some modern updates it gets 20 - 22 mpg, and is as clean as a mid-1980’s car (custom feedback carburetor, sealed PCV, sealed gas tank and charcoal canister). It’s the same length as a Toyota Yaris. All of the seats fold down > FLAT <. Best car I’ve ever owned. It’s my long distance car too, just came back from 2000+ miles from LA to Santa Fe NM and back.
It’s extremely slow, lol. A 1960’s VW Beetle would win any drag race. Cruises 65 mph all day long. It’s quiet and smooth. Automatic transmission.
The interior is ummm not quite stock. Bench seats! Dogs love them.
That’s a sweet ride.
Slow car fast always is fun, and you can get away with it without breaking the speed limit haha. Plus, you don’t have to worry about them as much as a nice car
That’s a really good deal for a car right now, even a car like the versa that sells new for under 20k. I got hit by a pickup this morning and am likely going to need to buy a new car in a hurry. I would take that deal in a second.
I usually prefer to buy a new econobox vs spending more on a used SUV or whatever. Unfortunately there really aren’t many cheap econoboxes left. Even the cheapest cars are only available in higher trim levels, bringing them well over $20k.
Anyone have any cheap new car suggestions?
Mitsubishi Mirage? 2023 starts at 16K. I’m pretty sure that and the Versa are two of of the cheapest new cars you can buy in America these days. Anyone know something I don’t?
No Mitsubishi dealer near me, unfortunately. The mirage was the first car I considered. I don’t mind getting a car from somewhere far away, but I’d have nowhere to get warranty service unless I drove 3 hours each time.
I had a Versa as a rental a few years ago, I think it’s too basic for me for the new price.
I appreciate your suggestions. I’m going today to check out a Toyota Carolla.
I mean, you can never go wrong with a Corolla. Thing will still be running 100 years from now.
I love little cars. On my second Chevy Spark and I never want to get rid of it. just coming up on 50k miles on it and I’ve only done basic maintenance so far. Great for parking in the city and I’ve personally hit 95 on the highway.
Absolutely.
For me, it’s about getting a car and driving it to it’s limits.
I’ve got a 2005 Toyota Prius. Bought it at 111,000 miles and currently at 123,000 miles. It’s lifted, oversized tires, and gets to do off road and still gets 40+ MPG. I’ve replaced a lot of parts on it and hoping to continue driving it until at least 400,000 miles.
That sounds wicked! How much lift does that thing have?
A tiny 1.5 inch. 😂
The oversized tires give me another inch, so a total of 7.5 inch clearance.
I’m gonna keep my 2002 Honda Accord kicking around until it dies. So satisfying to drive on the highways or push grip to the limit on backroads
Not necessarily econobox cars, but I love my little 1984 Honda Elite scooter. I have a few motorcycles and a Miata that I love driving, but nothing is as simple and reliable as that piece of shit scooter.
I got one when I turned 16. Elite 125.
I’ve seen a few still kicking around.
Absolutely. I’ve driven the wheels off a Honda Fit (300,000+ miles) and I still get as much kick out of it as I did when I first bought it.
As a rental car, I also kinda enjoyed the Versa. It’s so light. The CVT was what let the car down, so with the stick shift it’s probably a bit of a hoot.
Funny you bring up the Fit as my wife drives a 2012 Fit Sport. Amazing little car that does whatever we ask it to. Only 150K miles so it’s barely getting started.
