To use onehappypanda's phrase, I am looking for a "unicorn car"; in other words, one that is roomy, fuel-efficient, and reliable for under $5000 (and preferably closer to $4k to allow for transaction costs). We are looking to replace our 1995 Volvo 850 GLT sedan, which has over 205,000 miles and is threatening us with higher maintenance costs.
We have 2 kids and expect we'll have 3 within the next year or two. We are open to sedans and smaller hatchbacks, although we did test-drive a Vibe and found it pretty cramped in the back seat and very limited with cargo space once the stroller and medical equipment go in.) The 2002 Accord, which only comes in a sedan, has better, if not bigger, cargo capacity than the Vibe/Matrix.
So, I've been searching Craigslist for sedans and wagons with manual transmission that are near me in eastern Pennsylvania. Ideally I'd find something in-state, because the transaction costs are lower, but I'm open to crossing state lines. My top options at the moment, based on what's currently for sale by private sellers in my area (zip code 17603):
1. 2001 Subaru Outback - 107,000 miles - $4900 - AWD - est. MPG 19/25 - timing belt replaced at 80k, head gaskets replaced at 50k
2. 2001 Honda Accord EX - 159,000 miles - $4950 - est. MPG 22/29 - no maintenance records
3. 2004 Saturn VUE - 100,000 miles - $4200 - FWD - est. MPG 21/26 - uses a timing chain, not belt; one owner w/records
4. 2004 Honda Civic - 138,000 miles - $4700 - est. MPG 28/36 - don't know history
I think the Accord would be my preferred model, but there are very few specimens available at the moment, and they are pricey. The Outback was fairly enjoyable to drive and I like the look. But the owner confessed it never gets above the low 20s in MPG. That was a real turn-off, especially at the price. Comparatively, the VUE looks pretty good: better average MPG than the Subaru (and the only manual on fuelly.com gets an average of 28 MPG!), and very spacious. It's not a behemoth, either: at 181.3" it's shorter than the Accord (189") and the Outback (187.4") and about the same width as the Accord. Curb weight is lighter than the Subaru (which has AWD) by about 300 lbs.
I should note that all of these vehicles have manual transmissions. I'm struggling with this decision mainly because I don't like the idea of buying an SUV (call it a "mini-ute" or "crossover" if you want, but it's still an SUV). If there were something comparable in size to the Subaru wagon but with better fuel economy I'd be all over it like stink on a monkey. But those cars just don't seem to be out there. So, am I missing something? Or am I foolish in limiting my search to only manuals? Also: how far would you drive for the perfect car?
Thanks in advance for any suggestions. (P.S. I have searched the previous posts somewhat extensively and haven't found a thread exactly like this one, but I hope you'll forgive the unavoidable redundancies.)