Five cars for Rhys

A long time ago, Rhys asked me to recommend some cars for him. The basic criteria were around $10,000 and cheap to run and maintain. In the spirit of this post for Ricky, here's five cars for Rhys:

1. The newest Corolla you can afford
2. The newest Corolla you can afford
3. The newest Corolla you can afford
4. The newest Corolla you can afford
5. The newest Corolla you can afford

Boring, but true. Substitute Nissan Pulsar, Mitsubishi Lancer, Ford Laser or Mazda 323 for preference or if you can find a really well maintained example.

Taking a more creative and only slightly less sensible view, here's a secondary list with explanations.

1. Volvo 240. Seriously. They last almost for ever, parts are plentiful and inexpensive. They're also surprisingly fast and comfortable point-to-point. I'd get a wagon and spend a bit upgrading the suspension from "wallow" to "tied down" but that's just me.
2. Last of the good looking Mazda Astinas. Just a beautiful car. Find a four-cylinder one with low-ish mileage thats been looked after.

Ok, now these next three are a bit different but bear with me...
3. Peugeot 505 Gti. Not for the faint-hearted as it will need semi-significant mechanical repairs within a year of purchase, simply because the newest sedan versions are 15 years old. On the plus side, pick one up for $4000 or less and save the rest for said repairs. I'd have one tomorrow but then, I know the Peugeot Love.
4. Renault Fuego (scroll down). Most people are saying, "what?!", and some car people are probably sniggering. But seriously, for what people are asking for Fuegos in good condition, usually less than $2000, they're pretty hard to pass up. A Fuego (it's Spanish for "fire") is definately an unconventional choice but they're fairly basic mechanically, being descended from the 1970s Renault 12, meaning that they're not too hard to repair. Put some of the $10k you would have otherwise spent on a Corolla aside for some inevitable repairs and maintenance and have a car that's different, and great to drive, for not much cash at all. Joining one of the Renault Car Clubs in your state would be a must.
5. Alfa Romeo Alfasud or (or an Alfa Romeo 33). Like the Fuego these can be had for next to nothing and are a great car. The Alfasud in particular is a long-term favourite of mine. Many peope are put off by the 'Sud's reputation for rust however the last of the Ti models (around 1981-1983) are significantly better than the 1970s models. Joining one of the Alfa Romeo Owners Clubs in your state is a must, as is putting some money aside for repairs and maintenance.