Feedback on the following 2nd hand rides

[niky]

Yup... consider the age and check the bodies very carefully. The older the car, the more prone to rust.

I've heard said that Mitsu's rust-proofing is very good... I'm pretty sure (from experience) that rust on older Kias, Mazdas and the box-type Nissans will be an issue, as square bodied cars tend to attract rust (Civics are especially prone, strange then, that they're so expensive, no?). A newer Kia might not be afflicted, but it all depends on the previous owner.

The LEC might have rust problems if it was a taxi or accident damaged... same for the relatively boxy Corolla, though I haven't seen enough Corollas of that age to make an informed observation.

As always, check each prospective car very carefully. Don't automatically buy it just because it's a Corolla or a Pride or whatever... even if it's the legendary Corolla, if the carburator has not been cared for, your gas consumption will be horrible, and if the engine has not been properly maintained, an expensive overhaul is in store for you. Yes, Manila, Corolla engines do break down. (from experience din)

Take a friendly mechanic along when you inspect. Have him check the coolant, the radiator and hoses, smell the spark plugs ( ), check the wires and fixtures for cracks and brittleness, and check the oil for funny stuff... extra thick, gunky oil can be used to disguise an engine near to blow-by condition on test drives... I learned this the hard way...

Take your time, be patient, and good luck. With your budget, you'll need it. Not impossible to get a car for that much, but hard to get a good one.