updated "cars for smart people" thread?

[mabinogi]

I've read MMM's post on the topic, but wondering if there's anything more recent on the forum. I assume there is - could someone point me in that direction? Thanks!

[405programmer]

Posting to follow as I'm curious as well.

The best advice I can find seems to be look for an older well maintained vehicle that has all of your hard requirements (cargo room, number of passengers). I think in general accepting more risk can lead to better deals but the amount of risk you are comfortable accepting depends on your skill of working on a car.

Edited to add I found one:
http://forum.mrmoneymustache.com/ask-a-mustachian/has-there-been-a-more-recent-discussion-on-'cars-for-smart-people'/

[daverobev]

Nothing's changed.

Find something that fits 90% of your use, cheap to maintain and run.

If your use = towing horses, get a sensibly sized truck.

If you have 4 passengers regularly, minivan.

Otherwise, check out Corollas, Matrixes, Vibes, Fits, Fusions, Accents and Elantras.