I need a very cheap used car to take me to work and back. I don't want to spend much at all but I don't want a car that is about to die either.

I have found 2 cars that are $1k apart within what I would like to spend.

2004 Lancer ES (base model)
- 56k KM (33k miles)
- 5 speed
- still looks pretty new

OR

2005 Altima 2.5 S
- 115k KM (69k miles)
- 5 speed
- good condition

I know the Altima is a better car, but it has double the milage and costs $1k more than the Lancer.

What do you guys think?

 

Altima

 

altima.

 

Altima.

My parents have had two Altimas in their family since the Altima was launched. My dad is a leasing guy... so every 2 years (my mom's and dad's leases are off by a year) they get a new one. They have always loved them and never have had any problems with any year they have had.

 

Altima

 

youll be bored to tears with the whopping 120 hp that lancer produces. regardless of whether or not its a commuter

 

Wow - lancer didn't even get a chance.

 

Oh yeah - I pick Altima

 

altima, no idea why though.

 

I find the Altima to be a deathly boring car...it has never done anything for me and the inside looks like an Emo's dream car as there's not a single hint of color. Just drab black. But the Lancer is worse...Altima gets my vote.

 

Lancer

 

i pick lancer...you still have your CL, right?

well if this is merely a daily driver for you, obviously! get the Lancer for lower price and lower miles...

but like others are saying, if you think you'll want more power as well as other things from your DD, then i guess spend more, but it seems pointless for me for a "very cheap used car for work"

 

Altima. That mileage is just about enough to break in that engine.

 

Lancer: You could always do an engine transplant.... but that low KM, it was taken care of.

 

Whiskers can probably go for miles and miles without much maintenance, but I'd still go with the Altima