cars are bad investments, unless you restore an old classic perhaps....and a NEW car is one of the worst investments there is. if you really want something different, get something you REALLY like for around 2K and have money to fix it up. If it'* a car that really defines you and makes you happy to drive, you'll probably be more forgiving of it when it breaks. because it will. don't fool yourself.

Buying a junker can be cheap, But repairs and what could happen could make up for the saving.

Of course buying a new car is problem free most of the time. But you pay big when u drive it off the lot.

Only thing I could think is a 04-07 still under factory warranty, Or a Certified Used vehicle.

If reliability is the concern, I'd look into vehicles that you 'know' to be reliable. There are cars that are in general more reliable than others. For me, reliability is a big concern. If my car is broken down, that means i can't make it into work, meaning I don't get paid. A reliable vehicle is crucial, for me. This is probably why I've always had newer vehicles before they have major problems with them that would make it undrivable.

my dad recently made the new car choice, and it has had more problems than my 1995. new does not equal less problems

pay cash...payments are stupid. If all you can afford is a $1000 beater thats all you should be driving for now.

Cars are not an investment. Make sure you realize that before you proceed.

Then it comes down to what do you value more? Cash or a car you enjoy? For me, the choice is a hybrid. But, I still enjoy nice cars, but ones that don't carry a payment. When you have car payments, you also have full coverage requirements. Getting an older car by paying cash saves you a boat load on full coverage. Not having full coverage will make you a more sensible and aware driver, too. Each day that goes by without a car payment puts you further and further ahead. Remember that. Unless it'* a classic, cars only depreciate. And, I don't car what anyone says, every car will break down.

I'd suck it up and keep what you got. That is, unless you value a car that handles better, but will cost you more out of pocket and in depreciation.

I wouldn't suggest a new car, since it will lose so much value when you drive it off the lot. I would go with a certified pre-owned or something still under warranty, but only a couple years old.

I present to you the Tata Nano... $2500 brand new!

as I'm reading everyones reply this is what I was going to say as well.

couple of years old, certified pre owned with a warrenty.
that alone will save you @ ten grand from new.

Buy a used Toyota or Honda otherwise buy a like new pre-owned car. I would not buy a used cheap American car no matter what. Only reason I have this old TGP is because I plan to fix it up Heck the BMW is getting too old for my liking and when old BMWs are money pits too.