Yahoo Finance 9 Best ‘Beater’ Cars You Can Get for Under $5,000
Buying a “beater” car — typically an older, well-worn vehicle that may not be in pristine condition — can have several benefits. Over anything, price is the main advantage to getting yourself something that will do nicely for the daily drive to and from work.
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With both new and used cars at a premium, many Americans are warming to the idea of buying a depreciated vehicle that will serve them for the time being, paying as little as they can for the ride, for insurance and, hopefully, for maintenance.
Best ‘Beater’ Cars You Can Get for $5,000 or Less
Safety features in older cars may not be as advanced as those in newer models, and while beater cars come with certain drawbacks — such as potentially higher maintenance costs, lower fuel efficiency and a higher likelihood of unexpected breakdowns — they can be driven into the ground (but hopefully not to the poorhouse).
Here are nine beaters you can get for under $5,000:
1. Toyota Sequoia — $5,000
If you’re not afraid of high-mileage beaters (over 200,000 miles), you have to go with well-built cars that last for ages. That means Toyotas, first and foremost. Almost any vehicle will last for years if properly driven and maintained, but Toyotas generally last longer than all other brands. Car and Driver recommended the Sequoia, which ages like fine wine.
2. Scion tC (2005-2007) — $4,000
Discontinued in 2016, the Scion tC checks the two most important boxes for a beater buyer: a high depreciation and dependability rates. According to HotCars, the tC ranks as the best fun beater car you can buy for under $5K (for models made before the 2011 redesign year).
3. Acura TSX — $5,000
Later models will cost you closer to $10,000, but as Car and Driver noted, a powerful six-speed manual transmission TSX from around 2006 should be available for under $5,000 with a lot more luxury than others at the same price.
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4. Honda Civic Si (2006-2011) — $4,000
Hondas are great used cars. They’re reliable, well-made and there’s millions of them around, so finding parts or getting repairs shouldn’t be too taxing. The Si is a good choice for those shopping for a beater.
5. Ford F-150 — $3,000 to $5,000
Some drivers buy beaters for rough winter weather exclusively. Performance cars are cool, but hardly reliable when ice and snow is nasty. The wildly popular F-150 is a great heavy-duty winter truck with a strong V-8 and four-wheel drive. Fortunately, these trucks can be found for around $5,000.
6. Pontiac Vibe/Toyota Matrix (2003-2008) — $3,000
Now here is an affordable used Toyota that you should be able to find easily. These twins were co-developed by General Motors and Toyota for the U.S. and Canadian markets. These hatchbacks were spacious, versatile and great on gas — perfect to drive while you extend the life of your primary car.
7. Lexus LS400 — $5,000
Yes, luxe Lexus vehicles can be found for $5,000 and under. As HotCars mentioned, the LS400 is “considered by many as one of the most reliable luxury cars of all time,” but this model is old and will cost you in plenty in repairs over the years.
8. Mazda Miata — $5,000
Mazda Miata enthusiasts are a devoted bunch, and earlier Miata models are sought after and pricey, according to HotCars. The Miata was developed by Mazda to deliver an inexpensive classic British roadster akin to the MGBs, Triumph Spitfires and Fiat Spyders of old. They’ll be harder to find, but worth your hard earned $5,000 if you can.
9. Chevrolet Cavalier — $1,000
According to XYZCTEM’s blog, the Cavalier — Chevy’s replacement for the Monza (remember those?) that was produced from 1982 to 2005 in North America — is one of the cheapest beaters you’ll find. It’s also one of the cheapest to maintain, as parts are easy to come by and many repairs can be completed DIY-style.
When considering a beater car, it’s crucial to assess your individual needs, budget and willingness to invest time and money in maintenance. Spending less than $5,000 is a great plan in theory, but if you’re paying out the nose every month for repairs and never using the thing because it’s always in the shop, then what’s the point?
Even relics need an inspection by a trusted mechanic before purchasing to identify any potential issues and get it maintained regularly once you’ve bought it. Just because you’re plunking down very little for your beater, you shouldn’t treat it carelessly. Your safety is just as important on the road, whether you’re driving a new Tesla or an ancient Nissan.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 9 Best ‘Beater’ Cars You Can Get for Under $5,000
