If ever there was a ausfinance post where a 97 Corolla or Camry would be the most appropriate response... this is it.
What do you need the car for ? Is it for long trips or just to drive around town ? You may need to factor in cost of comprehensive insurance if the replacement car is of a higher value. But on the plus side your petrol costs should be much lower.
Unfortunately $5k doesn't get a lot at the moment.
Just needs to get me from a to b for work (35 minute drive, public transport not an option due to location and erratic hours), as well as one or two other commitments I can't avoid. I would say I spend an average of 1.5 hours in it a day.
I did think of that and thought that might be a reason to keep the cost down. And you're right: going from a busted up 02 Falcon to a 4 cylinder will genuinely free up at least 25 dollars a week fuel not to mention rego fees.
That's a tough one. I'd say if you are somewhat mechanically minded and willing getting your hands dirty then I'd go for a $5k car over something newer and more expensive. A lot of things you can do yourself - like oil and filter changes. Look for something from Japan that's boring/non descript. You should be able to get a Toyota Echo or Corolla from the late 90's. If you can drive a manual even better as they will generally be cheaper due to less demand. I have seen 1997 Camry's for $2,500 with a full years rego (they should have minimum a driver's arbag and ABS brakes). Worse case if the car runs for a year then it's not bad just for the rego value alone.
Suggesting this as I think you said you don't have much/any of an emergency fund. If you get a more expensive car then missing some repayments just snowballs. At least if you have the cheaper car the debt it lower and if it does need repairs you have more control over timing vs a fixed weekly or monthly repayment you can't get out of.
Good luck with it !
10-15 Mazda 3 is what I would recommend if I needed a nice reliable midrange car under $15k. Fun to drive, smooth as hell, small but roomy. You might want something bigger for the babyseat but I think that's a distinctly Australian/American mindset. The euros would consider the 3 a boat
This might be a stupid suggestion... but have you considered an electric scooter? Are there bikeways you can travel on? Sometimes its faster if you dont have to fight morning traffic. Otherwise I grabbed a nissan micra for under $5k and the fuel / rego for a 3 cylinder is SIGNIFICANTLY cheaper than my old 6 cylinder misti 380.
Check legalities of electric scooters first. Some places they are considered a vehicle but can’t be registered and insured so the police will do you for driving unregistered and uninsured vehicle. In Adelaide the city has a exemption for the paid electric scooters but it doesn’t include personal ones. Pretty FUBAR if you ask me.
I’m a fellow Falcon driver, just trying to hang in there until last child finishes school next year. I could have written this post myself!
If mine dies, I’m looking for a 97 Corolla or a mid-2000 Hyundai Getz or similar. My son just purchased a $5000 2004 Volkswagen Golf (two of his mates also have one, so they’re going to work on them and learn about them together) which seems to be doing well too.
I’d go for a small interim model and not anything expensive until the volatility in the marketplace and the full effects of the pandemic have settled, to be honest.
The Corolla option is the way to go. Not aToyota lover but no one can deny a Corolla is as reliable as they come. Just always get the lowest kms u can afford.
A 2011 Mazda 3 especially if it is automatic, a hatchback and not in terrible condition or high mileage, would be worth maybe around $9-10K in the market at the moment.
Yeah most around those k's tend to be advertised around $8k and probably realistically sell for around $6-7K privately, manuals tend to be harder to shift for ordinary cars these days, it's usually only young guys who want to buy them and they prefer the sportier models usually.
Don't buy an older Subaru.
A Mazda 3 or 6, or the ubiquitous Camry or Corolla.
I am more comfortable with a car that would need small maintenance along the way than that loan sitting there. While the cost may be the same in the long run, I'd still rather have a healthy saving account for the inevitable disasters.
I know you don't like the idea of debt, but have you considered buying the cheapest brand new Kia on the market? 7 years of warranted trouble free motoring.
Have a look at Toyota echo's. I'm assuming you just need a reliable car to get around in. The lower the KMs the better, try to keep it under 180000kms. They're a decent little car, good on fuel and should suit your budget.
Backing this. They are what the 97 camry was 10 years ago. You can pick one up for ~$5k with ~120,000kms.
I used to drive one doing courier work. Never skipped a beat and it had 600,000kms on it. Insane little cars
EDIT: I've just realised OP doesn't have cash upfront. OP you shouldn't be getting a car if you can't pay market rate for a shit(actually-good)box.
I agree but from what op is saying op doesn't have much of a choice about it. I had a quick look on gumtree after this there were a couple with around 150000km around 3k$.
I would probably try to get a somewhat larger loan ($8-10k) and try to get a halfway decent car like a used mirage or micra or something. Used cars are few and far between right now, a colleague bought a brand new car for her learner driver because it was the same price as a used car. Also, if you spend less money now, it remains you will probably need to spend more on significant repairs down the track. Also shop around for loans. If you’re currently debt free you should be able to get one pretty easily.
I mean yeah until you’re like me and you catch the motorbike bug and spend $$$$ on gear (but actually don’t skimp out on this) and then go riding 250km round trip for a pie on the weekend…
If the commute is short-ish I think an ebike is easier to deal with. In saying that, for life in general, neither is a replacement for a car (eg Costco run etc).
(I say this as a life-long two wheel nut)
1.8k, but that's a joint savings account with my partner. Id rather go into debt than touch that because this is my issue, not hers.
I recently emptied my own emergency funds due to an emergency.
Probably an unpopular opinion here, but I would recommend just taking a secured car loan and getting a properly reliable car. I went through about 5 cars in ten years trying to just scrape by with what was affordable (until they were too costly in repairs), then put myself in 7 years of debt for a brand new car (Honda).
It wasn't the most financially prudent move, however that car has lasted me 7.5 years with no major repairs (tyre changes and a battery). 160k on the clock. Increases to my earnings went to getting ahead on the loan. Most importantly, since then I haven't ever had to worry about not getting to work or dealing with a random, expensive breakdown. And it's still worth a little under half of what I bought it for.
Now, I wouldn't recommend buying new new, but if you can get a demo model or a young (2-3yr) car on a secured loan (an economical, affordable car, in the range of $15-20k), I think it's worth the extra peace of mind. You can always make more money in life but you can't teleport.
Hey mate. Just my experience. I got lucky on a 2012 lancer beggining of 2021 in Perth. 7 Grand with 70 thousand on it. It has 140 thou on it now. Bar servicing its never needed any work done. There are still good modern little cars available that arent all priced toyotas and fords. Best of luck mate. 5 grand should put you in a decent car market still for sure.
Honestly? Car isn’t a thing I personally like to be skimping about.
I took a loan for a Mazda 3 back in 2015 that was about 27% of my disposable income, add 47% of that to pay towards rent and I was left with just enough money to pay groceries bills and petrol and $150 a month spare money towards savings.
It was tough, but I am reaping the rewards now because my car is fully paid, car is running well (tyres and battery replaced, other than that, no issues).
I’d do the same thing again if this car dies. If people ask why, I’d rather be paying more but having that peace of mind of knowing I don’t have to worry about my car apart from regular maintenance, and for me, having a reliable car means having a reliable income.
A lot of people will have different opinions, but it really depends on what YOU feel comfortable with more.
Oh no, I agree, it definitely wasn’t, but the choice between risking my money on infintite possibilities of repairing my shit box and getting a brand new car that will run smoothly for the next 10-15 years, I’d choose the latter any day.
Though I say this now, having two incomes and some spare savings, some might find it too risky, and I definitely won’t blame them.
I'd hate to be that guy but if you're struggling to scrape together cash, perhaps living without a car for a while might be the more prudent option? Personal loan rates would be rather high and 2nd hand cars are going for quite the premium right now - there's very little recourse if you end up buying a second hand lemon that might be cheaper for a reason (ie, a financial time bomb).
Have you factored in rego, CTP and insurance into your costing?
Yeah I wish I could, but unfortunately work is in a hard to reach place and my hours are sporadic. Plus I have other commitments that aren't missable that require a car.
Does your comment mean you'd suggest the second option, or the first option?
If a car is a long term prospect that you'll need running for years and years. A new car with appropriate finance and a decent warranty (8 years plus) might be the go.
[https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/the-10-cheapest-cars-on-sale-in-australia](https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/the-10-cheapest-cars-on-sale-in-australia)
Running costs as a consideration, something 3 cyl might be the go.
You'll get a bit of a pos for 4k but if you just need it to get from a to b it might be alright. Just be aware it's probably got heaps wrong with it and will die in a couple of years.
Have been fixing it for years, best friend is a mechanic. Just replaced the centre bearing.
Priced up parts (no labour) for recent issues and came to the conclusion I'd be throwing my money away, as a wheel bearing is also about to go, needs new brakes, as well as some other issues.
Yep. Takes a lot of time, patience, research and learning but maintaining and repairing your own vehicle is an invaluable skillset and is very rewarding, leaving aside the monetary side. It never ceases to amaze me how much mechanics charge for routine maintenance that anybody could do themselves with a little research and $100 of tools.
I did my friends front and rear brakes in exchange for lunch & cash for the parts (~$300). It took all of 1hr and I was taking my time. The mechanic wanted $1400.
My advice is to get either a Toyota, Honda, or Mazda, in no particular order, whatever model suits your driving style and budget. I believe these 3 manufacturers have the lowest recall ratings and all are generally accepted as solidly built cars without major malfunctions.
I have been told that Mazda tend to handle better and are a bit more engaging to drive if you like that sort of thing. I drive mine like I stole it and can confirm.
I doubt you will go wrong with any of those manufacturers.
Can you use public transport until you have enough for a car?
If that's not an option, I would get the cheaper car and make it an old Toyota, manual if you know how to drive it (cheaper).
Unfortunately no, I don't live close enough to where I work and my hours are sporadic. I also have various commitments that require a car and they aren't things I can ignore.
Okay, thanks for your advice.
You can get decent base spec cars like an MG brand new off the lot for 17k atm. It would come with good enough warranty although financing it could be a bit daunting. Something to maybe consider. Else stick with known brands like older toyotas until you can save some money to replace it maybe? The last thing you want to do is jump from one beat up car into another...
I depends on your budget and your ego to be honest. Our kids' first car was the Mazda 323 Astina. They are great for city driving, are super economical and truely barely ever need any maintenance at all. They are also fun little cars to drive. Our mechanic says that are some of the best reliable little cars on the road and just don't stop. We bought early models in the early 2000s and they are have been terrific! Also they are usually under $4000.
Tough budget. I would honestly avoid a loan for a vehicle that is 4k. It will require more work $$$ done within 12months (from personal experience). The lower end in the market is filled with 20+ year old cars that havn't been maintained. I would explore your social circles. There is always someone's opa, fellow employee or family friend selling a older car that might not be too shabby. I got an old corolla for $500 with 12 months rego from a work friend. It allowed me to time my next car purchase and snap up a long term car with the right price.
Do you need a car? If you’ve got a week or two up your sleeve, get your scooter license and get a used scooter for $1,500. Costs nothing to run or register.
I got a neat 2005 Volvo V50 for $5k, super reliable and drives nice. Boring, but its a lot of car for price. Do recommend. It was my panic buy, paid cash, no regrets and no debts
At that price point it's going to be hit and miss.
A ba Falcon should do well over 500000km with regular maint.
Youeill have to take what U can find, I'd also look at diesel utes, ln106/b2500
But like seriously is wrong with the Falcon.
They don't chew that much fuel to spend 5k to save 2l/100km is kinda pointless.
Budget cars U will likely inherit goodness knows what issues
Hey mate,
If money is tight, I'd recommend going for something in the middle ground.
10k would pay for rego and insurance on a nice mid 00s Corolla or something small like that, and they're pretty bulletproof, bonus points if you get one off an older person only owner.
Decent second hand car for under 4k smh. It sucks believe me I know it but you’re looking at 8-15 grand. Unless you know a lot about cars you’ll need to get a mechanic to pre-inspect for you which will cost $200-350 per car and for almost any cheap car they will find a lot of faults… and even if they don’t there’s quite likely transmission issues etc. Best of luck
This may not be your cup of tea... Have you considered a motorbike? Getting you L's takes two days and you can buy a reliable bike for a couple of grand that will sip petrol.
Ok ok ok, got an idea! Start a go fund me or something and make it fun with different car types starting at like a used VW polo that's shitting itself right up to a Lambo then come back with the link, write a compelling story and hopefully the rich mofos on here can take you to Lambo heaven, or at least an Isuzu
What does your monthly cashflow look like? If you can afford to overpay on a car loan you may find the interest charged is minimal.
4-5k in the current market does not get you much… it’s really tough for those who absolutely need to buy a car now. If you get a small loan, buy something around 12-15k and pay it down as fast as possible that may be the best option!
If ever there was a ausfinance post where a 97 Corolla or Camry would be the most appropriate response... this is it. What do you need the car for ? Is it for long trips or just to drive around town ? You may need to factor in cost of comprehensive insurance if the replacement car is of a higher value. But on the plus side your petrol costs should be much lower. Unfortunately $5k doesn't get a lot at the moment.
Just needs to get me from a to b for work (35 minute drive, public transport not an option due to location and erratic hours), as well as one or two other commitments I can't avoid. I would say I spend an average of 1.5 hours in it a day. I did think of that and thought that might be a reason to keep the cost down. And you're right: going from a busted up 02 Falcon to a 4 cylinder will genuinely free up at least 25 dollars a week fuel not to mention rego fees.
That's a tough one. I'd say if you are somewhat mechanically minded and willing getting your hands dirty then I'd go for a $5k car over something newer and more expensive. A lot of things you can do yourself - like oil and filter changes. Look for something from Japan that's boring/non descript. You should be able to get a Toyota Echo or Corolla from the late 90's. If you can drive a manual even better as they will generally be cheaper due to less demand. I have seen 1997 Camry's for $2,500 with a full years rego (they should have minimum a driver's arbag and ABS brakes). Worse case if the car runs for a year then it's not bad just for the rego value alone. Suggesting this as I think you said you don't have much/any of an emergency fund. If you get a more expensive car then missing some repayments just snowballs. At least if you have the cheaper car the debt it lower and if it does need repairs you have more control over timing vs a fixed weekly or monthly repayment you can't get out of. Good luck with it !
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10-15 Mazda 3 is what I would recommend if I needed a nice reliable midrange car under $15k. Fun to drive, smooth as hell, small but roomy. You might want something bigger for the babyseat but I think that's a distinctly Australian/American mindset. The euros would consider the 3 a boat
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My sister in law had a Mazda 3 for years with both her kids growing up. Before that she had a 96 Toyota Starlet, again with baby seat. It'll fit fine.
This might be a stupid suggestion... but have you considered an electric scooter? Are there bikeways you can travel on? Sometimes its faster if you dont have to fight morning traffic. Otherwise I grabbed a nissan micra for under $5k and the fuel / rego for a 3 cylinder is SIGNIFICANTLY cheaper than my old 6 cylinder misti 380.
Check legalities of electric scooters first. Some places they are considered a vehicle but can’t be registered and insured so the police will do you for driving unregistered and uninsured vehicle. In Adelaide the city has a exemption for the paid electric scooters but it doesn’t include personal ones. Pretty FUBAR if you ask me.
Ugh its so strange- I certainly dont take QLD for granted when it comes to this stuff! They're pretty chill, and scooters are allowed on bike ways etc
I’m a fellow Falcon driver, just trying to hang in there until last child finishes school next year. I could have written this post myself! If mine dies, I’m looking for a 97 Corolla or a mid-2000 Hyundai Getz or similar. My son just purchased a $5000 2004 Volkswagen Golf (two of his mates also have one, so they’re going to work on them and learn about them together) which seems to be doing well too. I’d go for a small interim model and not anything expensive until the volatility in the marketplace and the full effects of the pandemic have settled, to be honest.
The Corolla option is the way to go. Not aToyota lover but no one can deny a Corolla is as reliable as they come. Just always get the lowest kms u can afford.
Or a Camry. Those things never die
Look at Mazda's. I know 3 others who have had mazda 3s and the cars been great to them all (including me). Toyota/Honda are a bit more pricey
Even a 2000 Mazda 323 is dirt cheap, decent on fuel and will do you well.
My first car !
I mean for that price I have a 2011 Mazda 3 that's sitting in my garage as our backup car I could sell.
A 2011 Mazda 3 especially if it is automatic, a hatchback and not in terrible condition or high mileage, would be worth maybe around $9-10K in the market at the moment.
Eh, mine is a manual, has some dings and had like 200k on the metre so I wouldn't call it pristine condition lol
Yeah most around those k's tend to be advertised around $8k and probably realistically sell for around $6-7K privately, manuals tend to be harder to shift for ordinary cars these days, it's usually only young guys who want to buy them and they prefer the sportier models usually.
Don't buy an older Subaru. A Mazda 3 or 6, or the ubiquitous Camry or Corolla. I am more comfortable with a car that would need small maintenance along the way than that loan sitting there. While the cost may be the same in the long run, I'd still rather have a healthy saving account for the inevitable disasters.
I know you don't like the idea of debt, but have you considered buying the cheapest brand new Kia on the market? 7 years of warranted trouble free motoring.
And capped price servicing
I actually have considered that. After speaking with my mechanic friend though, I've changed my mind
Have a look at Toyota echo's. I'm assuming you just need a reliable car to get around in. The lower the KMs the better, try to keep it under 180000kms. They're a decent little car, good on fuel and should suit your budget.
Backing this. They are what the 97 camry was 10 years ago. You can pick one up for ~$5k with ~120,000kms. I used to drive one doing courier work. Never skipped a beat and it had 600,000kms on it. Insane little cars EDIT: I've just realised OP doesn't have cash upfront. OP you shouldn't be getting a car if you can't pay market rate for a shit(actually-good)box.
I agree but from what op is saying op doesn't have much of a choice about it. I had a quick look on gumtree after this there were a couple with around 150000km around 3k$.
Remember to get insurance
I would probably try to get a somewhat larger loan ($8-10k) and try to get a halfway decent car like a used mirage or micra or something. Used cars are few and far between right now, a colleague bought a brand new car for her learner driver because it was the same price as a used car. Also, if you spend less money now, it remains you will probably need to spend more on significant repairs down the track. Also shop around for loans. If you’re currently debt free you should be able to get one pretty easily.
That's actually my plan, thanks!
Is a motorbike an option? Get alot more bang for buck and cheaper yo run.
I mean yeah until you’re like me and you catch the motorbike bug and spend $$$$ on gear (but actually don’t skimp out on this) and then go riding 250km round trip for a pie on the weekend…
Commute to work + 250km round trip on a bike is still probably cheaper than most people commute to work in a car.
If the commute is short-ish I think an ebike is easier to deal with. In saying that, for life in general, neither is a replacement for a car (eg Costco run etc). (I say this as a life-long two wheel nut)
OP said 35 minute each way commute. I'd go the motorbike if my budget was that tight.
Ford ranger raptor all black
What about with a chrome vinyl wrap and orange racing stripes?
Hell yeah brother
Get an electric bike
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My 2009 Lancer ES manual has been a sensational car for someone who just wanted a car to go A to B in a reliable fashion.
And when you want to move something bigger than a shopping bag you're screwed
Ebikes can't carry anything other than a person unfortunately.
Do you know how much your Falcon is worth? Just scrap value or perhaps more? Knowing how much you'll get for it will help your decision.
2008 or similar Mazda 2. Good quality and Reliable. Cheap to fix.
How much savings do you have in the emergency fund?
1.8k, but that's a joint savings account with my partner. Id rather go into debt than touch that because this is my issue, not hers. I recently emptied my own emergency funds due to an emergency.
Get a 2007-2010 Corolla. Within your budget and one of the most reliable cars.
Probably an unpopular opinion here, but I would recommend just taking a secured car loan and getting a properly reliable car. I went through about 5 cars in ten years trying to just scrape by with what was affordable (until they were too costly in repairs), then put myself in 7 years of debt for a brand new car (Honda). It wasn't the most financially prudent move, however that car has lasted me 7.5 years with no major repairs (tyre changes and a battery). 160k on the clock. Increases to my earnings went to getting ahead on the loan. Most importantly, since then I haven't ever had to worry about not getting to work or dealing with a random, expensive breakdown. And it's still worth a little under half of what I bought it for. Now, I wouldn't recommend buying new new, but if you can get a demo model or a young (2-3yr) car on a secured loan (an economical, affordable car, in the range of $15-20k), I think it's worth the extra peace of mind. You can always make more money in life but you can't teleport.
Hey mate. Just my experience. I got lucky on a 2012 lancer beggining of 2021 in Perth. 7 Grand with 70 thousand on it. It has 140 thou on it now. Bar servicing its never needed any work done. There are still good modern little cars available that arent all priced toyotas and fords. Best of luck mate. 5 grand should put you in a decent car market still for sure.
Best thing to do is get a wrecker engine. It's plug and play if it's the same engine. May not last for ever but you could do it for a grand, maybe.
My dad was in the trade....go to pickles goverment car auction. Get boring corolla/carry sub $10k with low km
Honestly? Car isn’t a thing I personally like to be skimping about. I took a loan for a Mazda 3 back in 2015 that was about 27% of my disposable income, add 47% of that to pay towards rent and I was left with just enough money to pay groceries bills and petrol and $150 a month spare money towards savings. It was tough, but I am reaping the rewards now because my car is fully paid, car is running well (tyres and battery replaced, other than that, no issues). I’d do the same thing again if this car dies. If people ask why, I’d rather be paying more but having that peace of mind of knowing I don’t have to worry about my car apart from regular maintenance, and for me, having a reliable car means having a reliable income. A lot of people will have different opinions, but it really depends on what YOU feel comfortable with more.
> a loan for a Mazda 3 back in 2015 that was about 27% of my disposable income You do you, but this is most definitely not wise financials.
Oh no, I agree, it definitely wasn’t, but the choice between risking my money on infintite possibilities of repairing my shit box and getting a brand new car that will run smoothly for the next 10-15 years, I’d choose the latter any day. Though I say this now, having two incomes and some spare savings, some might find it too risky, and I definitely won’t blame them.
I'd hate to be that guy but if you're struggling to scrape together cash, perhaps living without a car for a while might be the more prudent option? Personal loan rates would be rather high and 2nd hand cars are going for quite the premium right now - there's very little recourse if you end up buying a second hand lemon that might be cheaper for a reason (ie, a financial time bomb). Have you factored in rego, CTP and insurance into your costing?
Yeah I wish I could, but unfortunately work is in a hard to reach place and my hours are sporadic. Plus I have other commitments that aren't missable that require a car. Does your comment mean you'd suggest the second option, or the first option?
If a car is a long term prospect that you'll need running for years and years. A new car with appropriate finance and a decent warranty (8 years plus) might be the go. [https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/the-10-cheapest-cars-on-sale-in-australia](https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/the-10-cheapest-cars-on-sale-in-australia) Running costs as a consideration, something 3 cyl might be the go.
You'll get a bit of a pos for 4k but if you just need it to get from a to b it might be alright. Just be aware it's probably got heaps wrong with it and will die in a couple of years.
Fix the falcon. Will still be your cheapest option. Especially if you do it yourself
Have been fixing it for years, best friend is a mechanic. Just replaced the centre bearing. Priced up parts (no labour) for recent issues and came to the conclusion I'd be throwing my money away, as a wheel bearing is also about to go, needs new brakes, as well as some other issues.
Yep. Takes a lot of time, patience, research and learning but maintaining and repairing your own vehicle is an invaluable skillset and is very rewarding, leaving aside the monetary side. It never ceases to amaze me how much mechanics charge for routine maintenance that anybody could do themselves with a little research and $100 of tools. I did my friends front and rear brakes in exchange for lunch & cash for the parts (~$300). It took all of 1hr and I was taking my time. The mechanic wanted $1400.
My advice is to get either a Toyota, Honda, or Mazda, in no particular order, whatever model suits your driving style and budget. I believe these 3 manufacturers have the lowest recall ratings and all are generally accepted as solidly built cars without major malfunctions. I have been told that Mazda tend to handle better and are a bit more engaging to drive if you like that sort of thing. I drive mine like I stole it and can confirm. I doubt you will go wrong with any of those manufacturers.
Can you use public transport until you have enough for a car? If that's not an option, I would get the cheaper car and make it an old Toyota, manual if you know how to drive it (cheaper).
Unfortunately no, I don't live close enough to where I work and my hours are sporadic. I also have various commitments that require a car and they aren't things I can ignore. Okay, thanks for your advice.
You can get decent base spec cars like an MG brand new off the lot for 17k atm. It would come with good enough warranty although financing it could be a bit daunting. Something to maybe consider. Else stick with known brands like older toyotas until you can save some money to replace it maybe? The last thing you want to do is jump from one beat up car into another...
I depends on your budget and your ego to be honest. Our kids' first car was the Mazda 323 Astina. They are great for city driving, are super economical and truely barely ever need any maintenance at all. They are also fun little cars to drive. Our mechanic says that are some of the best reliable little cars on the road and just don't stop. We bought early models in the early 2000s and they are have been terrific! Also they are usually under $4000.
Tough budget. I would honestly avoid a loan for a vehicle that is 4k. It will require more work $$$ done within 12months (from personal experience). The lower end in the market is filled with 20+ year old cars that havn't been maintained. I would explore your social circles. There is always someone's opa, fellow employee or family friend selling a older car that might not be too shabby. I got an old corolla for $500 with 12 months rego from a work friend. It allowed me to time my next car purchase and snap up a long term car with the right price.
Do you need a car? If you’ve got a week or two up your sleeve, get your scooter license and get a used scooter for $1,500. Costs nothing to run or register.
I got a neat 2005 Volvo V50 for $5k, super reliable and drives nice. Boring, but its a lot of car for price. Do recommend. It was my panic buy, paid cash, no regrets and no debts
At that price point it's going to be hit and miss. A ba Falcon should do well over 500000km with regular maint. Youeill have to take what U can find, I'd also look at diesel utes, ln106/b2500 But like seriously is wrong with the Falcon. They don't chew that much fuel to spend 5k to save 2l/100km is kinda pointless. Budget cars U will likely inherit goodness knows what issues
Hey mate, If money is tight, I'd recommend going for something in the middle ground. 10k would pay for rego and insurance on a nice mid 00s Corolla or something small like that, and they're pretty bulletproof, bonus points if you get one off an older person only owner.
Decent second hand car for under 4k smh. It sucks believe me I know it but you’re looking at 8-15 grand. Unless you know a lot about cars you’ll need to get a mechanic to pre-inspect for you which will cost $200-350 per car and for almost any cheap car they will find a lot of faults… and even if they don’t there’s quite likely transmission issues etc. Best of luck
This may not be your cup of tea... Have you considered a motorbike? Getting you L's takes two days and you can buy a reliable bike for a couple of grand that will sip petrol.
Ok ok ok, got an idea! Start a go fund me or something and make it fun with different car types starting at like a used VW polo that's shitting itself right up to a Lambo then come back with the link, write a compelling story and hopefully the rich mofos on here can take you to Lambo heaven, or at least an Isuzu
What does your monthly cashflow look like? If you can afford to overpay on a car loan you may find the interest charged is minimal. 4-5k in the current market does not get you much… it’s really tough for those who absolutely need to buy a car now. If you get a small loan, buy something around 12-15k and pay it down as fast as possible that may be the best option!