Best Used Cars on a $5,000 Budget

Let’s be real: Buying a car on a $5,000 budget is not easy these days. That’s a month’s rent in some places. But there are interesting cars to be found if you’re looking for a project or, with careful selection and inspection, an inexpensive commuter. Our list of sub-$5,000 choices is a tour of recent automotive history, including more than one defunct brand.

As always when buying used cars, but especially when buying cheap used cars, the quality and condition of the specific car you’re looking at are paramount. Don’t be too fixated on year or trim, for example. It’s also important to note that different cars can be more or less expensive in different parts of the country. Let this list be a guide and a jumping-off point to help you search.

Here are 10 of the best used cars on a $5,000 budget.

1. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu

If you’re looking for a larger sub-$5,000 car that’s quiet, comfortable, and refined, the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is a good choice. Definitely look for models equipped with the 252-horsepower V6 over the 169-horsepower 4-cylinder, as the extra pep is appreciated, especially if you have a full carload of passengers. See 2008 Chevrolet Malibu models for sale

2. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic

The 2012 Chevrolet Sonic isn’t the car you buy because you fell in love with it as a kid; it’s the one you buy because you need an efficient, inexpensive commuter that’s also quiet and composed. As the replacement to the entirely avoidable Aveo, the Sonic proved comfortable and efficient, with up to 40 mpg highway on the menu. See 2012 Chevrolet Sonic models for sale

3. 2012 Ford Focus

The 2012 Ford Focus was all-new when it debuted and amounted to a massive turnaround from the previous (disappointing) Focus. Instead of slumpy looks and slumpier performance, the 2012 Focus still looks modern and offers still-relevant tech, like in-car Wi-Fi, park assist, and a 10-speaker Sony HD sound system. Look for Titanium models equipped with the optional sport suspension and 18-inch wheels if you’d like an extra dose of sporty handling; otherwise, enjoy your 29 to 32 mpg combined rating. See 2012 Ford Focus models for sale

4. 2008 Ford Fusion

The 2008 Ford Fusion might look like a late-aughts American sedan, but if you dig a little deeper, you’ll realize much of the Fusion’s makeup is Japanese, based on the sporty and capable Mazda6. That gives the Fusion a better driving feel and economy than you might expect while offering plenty of interior space and comfort. See 2008 Ford Fusion models for sale

5. 2009 Nissan Sentra

For a car that’s a bit less of a character and a bit more of an everyday beater, the 2009 Nissan Sentra is compact and easy to park, inexpensive to fix, and cheap to operate thanks to its up to 29 mpg combined fuel economy rating in Sentra FE form. Although the sporty SE-R and Spec-V models are just above our budget cap, the SL is within reach and offers niceties like cruise control, keyless entry, and power accessories. See 2009 Nissan Sentra models for sale

6. 2009 Saab 9-3

By the time 2010 rolled around, Saab Automobile was essentially already out of business, although Spyker and NEVS tried to resurrect the brand for several years. No matter to you, however, as the 2009 Saab 9-3 is now a killer deal. Apart from the characteristic style and punchy turbocharged engine lineup, the Saab 9-3 was also available with two different manual transmissions, depending on the engine chosen. For a fun-to-drive slice of automotive history, the Saab 9-3 is hard to beat. See 2009 Saab 9-3 models for sale

7. 2008 Saturn Aura

Although it ultimately amounted to too little, too late, the 2008 Saturn Aura is one of the brand’s final offerings, with sharp looks and a sense of solidity and refinement that the brand could have used a decade earlier. Still, the Aura is a fine car with available features like a panoramic sunroof, rear-seat wireless headphones, remote start, leather seating, and more. See 2008 Saturn Aura models for sale

8. 2007 Subaru Legacy

The 2007 Subaru Legacy lives up to its name, carrying forward Subaru’s mantle of capable, sporty, all-wheel-drive (AWD) cars with grace and sure-footed ease. A 243-horsepower 2.5-liter turbocharged boxer engine can be paired with a manual transmission for a surprisingly engaging family car. If you need extra space, there’s even a Legacy Wagon version. See 2007 Subaru Legacy models for sale

9. 2011 Suzuki SX4

Available in both sedan and hatchback forms, the 2011 Suzuki SX4 is another defunct brand offering that nonetheless holds some appeal for the right buyer. While the sedan is a fine choice, the hatchback — often called a small crossover — is even more interesting, with standard AWD and fun styling. If you’re looking for something quirky but affordable, this fits the bill. See 2011 Suzuki SX4 models for sale

10. 2008 Volvo S60

Sweden’s more enduring brand, Volvo, is still around today, and the 2008 Volvo S60 is a sleeker, more mature take on the sedan theme. Sporty, stylish, and refined, the S60 stands out from the crowd with a pair of turbocharged 5-cylinder engines, which also contribute a unique exhaust note. Look for T5 models with the higher-output engine and luxurious upgrades like leather upholstery and a power sunroof. See 2008 Volvo S60 models for sale

Best Used Cars On a $5,000 Budget

1. 2008 Chevrolet Malibu
2. 2012 Chevrolet Sonic
3. 2012 Ford Focus
4. 2008 Ford Fusion
5. 2009 Nissan Sentra
6. 2009 Saab 9-3
7. 2008 Saturn Aura
8. 2007 Subaru Legacy
9. 2011 Suzuki SX4
10. 2008 Volvo S60