[00 SS]

It's been a while since I've considered buying a little car just to go from point A to point B but I find myself needing one. I have a few requirements.

1. It must be capable of at least 80 on the highway without being right at redline.

2. It must get at least 30 MPG on the highway.

3. It must have enough room for 4 people or 2 people and 2 big dogs.

4. It must be competent in bad weather and snow.

5. It must be cheap because I plan to pile miles on it and replace it in a couple years.

6. I'd preffer sometheing newer to keep maintenance costs down.

Any suggestions?

[BigEnos]

I picked up a nice little 1985 Nissan Maxima SE a few years back. Meets just about all your needs, but I can only eek out 26 or so mpg. Car was $1500 to buy and didn't need a ton of work.

My point is not to say go out and find a 1985 Maxima, I doubt you'll find any good ones. Put the word out to all your gearhead buddies that you need a beater, you'd be surprised what comes out of the woodwork. That's how I found mine. Low-mile older japanese cars and recent, but unloved domestics (trying not to offend Cavalier and grand-am owners here) will probably be your best bet. Olds Aleros are good/cheap, too.