CarSPIN Forums

Auto Talk => Head to Head => Topic started by: CaminoRacer on December 02, 2016, 12:40:23 PM

Title: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on December 02, 2016, 12:40:23 PM
Under $2000, 4 doors preferably. Reliability or easy maintenance a plus.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on December 02, 2016, 12:40:53 PM
This comes in wayyyy under budget. The scratches should buff out pretty well

http://provo.craigslist.org/cto/5898481011.html
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: MrH on December 02, 2016, 12:43:33 PM
Cleanest Toyota or Honda you can find.  Model is kind of irrelevant.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: shp4man on December 02, 2016, 12:49:26 PM
I would say an under 100k mile ,old man, can't drive any more Crown Vic. Year not really important.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Soup DeVille on December 02, 2016, 12:51:26 PM
Quote from: MrH on December 02, 2016, 12:43:33 PM
Cleanest Toyota or Honda you can find.  Model is kind of irrelevant.

At $3000, sure; but any Honda less than $2000 is a basket case.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on December 02, 2016, 12:57:58 PM
Depending on what "minor work" means, this could be decent:

http://www.ksl.com/auto/listing/3377184?ad_cid=11

2000 Civic LX (manual)
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Raza on December 02, 2016, 01:03:28 PM
http://atcm.co/S2PVDP/1A71C47D

I win.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on December 02, 2016, 01:13:10 PM
Quote from: CaminoRacer on December 02, 2016, 12:57:58 PM
Depending on what "minor work" means, this could be decent:

http://www.ksl.com/auto/listing/3377184?ad_cid=11

2000 Civic LX (manual)

Needs a "muffler and tune up".

Honestly could be a good deal. Might go test drive it for fun.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: 2o6 on December 02, 2016, 01:15:35 PM
Quote from: CaminoRacer on December 02, 2016, 01:13:10 PM
Needs a "muffler and tune up".

Honestly could be a good deal. Might go test drive it for fun.

Do the timing belt, ASAP.


Quote from: Soup DeVille on December 02, 2016, 12:51:26 PM
At $3000, sure; but any Honda less than $2000 is a basket case.

True. But there are a couple high-miles 2001 ish civics for sale.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on December 02, 2016, 01:32:47 PM
http://www.ksl.com/auto/listing/3350549?ad_cid=13

'92 Celica GT, 153k miles. Not bad, but it's an auto.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: 12,000 RPM on December 02, 2016, 01:34:05 PM
"Cheap" Honda/Toyota is generally not

I like the Crown Vic suggestion. Any abundant fleet car fits the bill.

As far as imports go I'd put a used Sentra or Versa in the mix. I think used Mitsubishis are pretty solid too. Also any import with a domestic rebadge (i.e. Pontiac Vibe)
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Cookie Monster on December 02, 2016, 01:36:19 PM
Quote from: CaminoRacer on December 02, 2016, 01:32:47 PM
http://www.ksl.com/auto/listing/3350549?ad_cid=13

'92 Celica GT, 153k miles. Not bad, but it's an auto.

The Civic looks nice, especially for the price, but get the Celica and swap the transmission for the remainder of your budget.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on December 02, 2016, 01:39:18 PM
This Civic is probably a better deal.

http://www.ksl.com/auto/listing/3377146?ad_cid=1
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: 2o6 on December 02, 2016, 01:39:23 PM
Quote from: 12,000 RPM on December 02, 2016, 01:34:05 PM
"Cheap" Honda/Toyota is generally not

I like the Crown Vic suggestion. Any abundant fleet car fits the bill.



As far as imports go I'd put a used Sentra or Versa in the mix.

Whenever I go and look at a Nissan, I always pass because they generally are treated the shittiest of all the asian brands. Probably worse than mitsubishis. Plus the CVT's don't always work right.


I think used Mitsubishis are pretty solid too.

Nope. Only solid is car is the pre 2006 Lancer. Those cars are fairly rugged, they don't do well with rust, but they're OK. Stay away from the eclipse.



Also any import with a domestic rebadge (i.e. Pontiac Vibe)

You do realize I buy these like clockwork with bad engines all the time, right? The Vibe is worth a pretty penny when running right. If it's cheap, it's probably broken.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: 2o6 on December 02, 2016, 01:42:17 PM
2005 Focus Manual - it's a facelift car so it's got the Mazda MZR/Duratec 2.0L

https://provo.craigslist.org/cto/5900148000.html

00' Prelude. Give him $2000.

https://provo.craigslist.org/cto/5900726685.html

01' Civic LX. AC condenser is an easy fix, and a new one is like $80.

https://provo.craigslist.org/cto/5873403094.html

Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Soup DeVille on December 02, 2016, 01:43:14 PM
Quote from: 12,000 RPM on December 02, 2016, 01:34:05 PM
"Cheap" Honda/Toyota is generally not

I like the Crown Vic suggestion. Any abundant fleet car fits the bill.

As far as imports go I'd put a used Sentra or Versa in the mix. I think used Mitsubishis are pretty solid too. Also any import with a domestic rebadge (i.e. Pontiac Vibe)

Crown Vics are literally peanuts to keep running. It's ridiculous.

Lots of things will go wrong, but very few will actually stop it.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Raza on December 02, 2016, 01:45:41 PM
Quote from: 2o6 on December 02, 2016, 01:42:17 PM
2005 Focus Manual - it's a facelift car so it's got the Mazda MZR/Duratec 2.0L

https://provo.craigslist.org/cto/5900148000.html

00' Prelude. Give him $2000.

https://provo.craigslist.org/cto/5900726685.html

01' Civic LX. AC condenser is an easy fix, and a new one is like $80.

https://provo.craigslist.org/cto/5873403094.html

I dig that Prelude.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Rupert on December 02, 2016, 01:51:45 PM
The Civic that 2o6 posted or a Crown Vic.

I've been down this road (in college, cheap cars), and it didn't work out practically or economically.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Soup DeVille on December 02, 2016, 02:15:53 PM
And then I've been driving a car I paid $2500 for for three years now.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on December 02, 2016, 02:39:01 PM
Texted the guy with the Civic 2o6 posted. Almost backed out because I realized I'd be way low in cash. Low balled him at $1200 and he just said he really needs to sell it and would take it. Hmm...
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Cookie Monster on December 02, 2016, 02:54:36 PM
LOL
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Cookie Monster on December 02, 2016, 02:56:07 PM
$2k could buy you a running '85 RX7 GSL-SE...

Not mine, of course.

And it's also not a jalopy. :nono:
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on December 02, 2016, 03:10:43 PM
Insurance on the Civic is $50/month. Twice as much as my bike.  :nutty:
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Cookie Monster on December 02, 2016, 03:11:43 PM
Has twice the wheels. :huh:
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Eye of the Tiger on December 02, 2016, 03:15:20 PM
Civic, duh. With a manual. Or E36 M3.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: veeman on December 02, 2016, 03:21:08 PM
Crown Vics suck though.  Engine sounds coarse, V8 but not very fast, very thirsty for gas, for a car that big the backseat actually doesn't have much room, horrible in the winter where it snows, and the backseats don't fold down making Home Depot runs harder.  Bad crash test results too.   

My Dad had one which I drove quite a bit and I thought it was a cool cop car but after a few years I realized it was a very crappy car that cops had to put up with.   

If its just a car to drive not very often its cool.  But as a daily driver jalopy I'd much rather get something else. 
 

Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Laconian on December 02, 2016, 03:36:12 PM
+1, Panthers are shit.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Soup DeVille on December 02, 2016, 04:06:25 PM
Quote from: veeman on December 02, 2016, 03:21:08 PM
Crown Vics suck though.  Engine sounds coarse, V8 but not very fast, very thirsty for gas, for a car that big the backseat actually doesn't have much room, horrible in the winter where it snows, and the backseats don't fold down making Home Depot runs harder.  Bad crash test results too.   

My Dad had one which I drove quite a bit and I thought it was a cool cop car but after a few years I realized it was a very crappy car that cops had to put up with.   

If its just a car to drive not very often its cool.  But as a daily driver jalopy I'd much rather get something else. 
 



My back seats fold down. 4x8 sheets of plywood with the tailgate down. Engine runs smooth too, but admittedly the new distributor made that a lot better. Drives fine in the snow too. Pretty damn good actually.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Gotta-Qik-C7 on December 02, 2016, 05:52:58 PM
Quote from: Rupert on December 02, 2016, 01:51:45 PM
The Civic that 2o6 posted or a Crown Vic.

I've been down this road (in college, cheap cars), and it didn't work out practically or economically.
Imma let you in on my #1 Rule when buying Beaters! I never buy cars with after market radios! It's worked out well for me for years! The last four ('95 Tracer, '94 Corolla, '00 Malibu (daughter) and now my '98 Corolla) I purchased still had Factory radios and all ran for years with no serious issues!  :rockon:
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on December 02, 2016, 05:55:18 PM
Quote from: Gotta-Qik-C6 on December 02, 2016, 05:52:58 PM
Imma let you in on my #1 Rule when buying Beaters! I never buy cars with after market radios! It's worked out well for me for years! The last four ('95 Tracer, '94 Corolla, '00 Malibu (daughter) and now my '98 Corolla) I purchased still had Factory radios and all ran for years with no serious issues!  :rockon:

Interesting. I like your thinking.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Cookie Monster on December 02, 2016, 06:01:17 PM
Quote from: Gotta-Qik-C6 on December 02, 2016, 05:52:58 PM
Imma let you in on my #1 Rule when buying Beaters! I never buy cars with after market radios! It's worked out well for me for years! The last four ('95 Tracer, '94 Corolla, '00 Malibu (daughter) and now my '98 Corolla) I purchased still had Factory radios and all ran for years with no serious issues!  :rockon:

Oh fuck. RX7 has aftermarket radio.

Although it doesn't have those weird piston things so maybe it'll be OK?
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Eye of the Tiger on December 02, 2016, 06:09:31 PM
For me, it depends on the model of the radio, and the quality of installation.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Gotta-Qik-C7 on December 02, 2016, 06:18:06 PM
Quote from: Cookie Monster on December 02, 2016, 06:01:17 PM
Oh fuck. RX7 has aftermarket radio.

Although it doesn't have those weird piston things so maybe it'll be OK?
:ohyeah: I think you'll be ok with no pistons!  :lol:
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: veeman on December 02, 2016, 06:52:12 PM
Quote from: Soup DeVille on December 02, 2016, 04:06:25 PM
My back seats fold down. 4x8 sheets of plywood with the tailgate down. Engine runs smooth too, but admittedly the new distributor made that a lot better. Drives fine in the snow too. Pretty damn good actually.

Isn't yours an LTD Ford Crown Victoria Country Squire Wagon?  Those are
cool. 
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Eye of the Tiger on December 02, 2016, 06:57:56 PM
I choose S10 pickup as best jalopy.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Soup DeVille on December 02, 2016, 07:03:09 PM
Quote from: veeman on December 02, 2016, 06:52:12 PM
Isn't yours an LTD Ford Crown Victoria Country Squire Wagon?  Those are
cool. 

Ha! No. Those are for plebs.

Mine is a Mercury Grand Marquis LS Colony Park.

(I did try and fail to buy an LTD wagon just last week)
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on December 02, 2016, 07:09:06 PM
Quote from: Soup DeVille on December 02, 2016, 07:03:09 PM
(I did try and fail to buy an LTD wagon just last week)

I am disappoint.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Soup DeVille on December 02, 2016, 07:12:59 PM
Quote from: CaminoRacer on December 02, 2016, 07:09:06 PM
I am disappoint.


The wife was relieved. She didn't say it, but she was.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: 12,000 RPM on December 03, 2016, 04:30:45 PM
Completely unrelated but I have a real soft spot for Fairmont wagons

Would love to put a Cobra IRS and 302 crate engine in one
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on December 04, 2016, 12:24:39 PM
I think I'm gonna test drive a few things next week. I've driven most but it'd be good to do back-to-back for comparison's sake.

Early to mid 2000s Civic
HHR
Mini Cooper
Cheap old Taco/4runner
Outback or Legacy wagon
Volvo wagon?

Anything else? These cars can have a bit higher budget. $6k maybe. I have two different paths I can go down - either a cheap-ish small car that can do SCCA as well as DD duties year-round or a more utility oriented vehicle that is good for roadtrips and camping (nothing to difficult off-road, just gravel roads really). Either one would be nice to have 4 doors and seats.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Laconian on December 04, 2016, 12:26:20 PM
Mazda3?
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Eye of the Tiger on December 04, 2016, 12:30:20 PM
I would say a used Versa, but I would never buy one of those.
Clearly the Civic is the best choice (manual only). 4 seats, MPG, super reliable and easy to work on, can blow away random autocrosses in stock form.
Why would you need a pickup or wagon when you have The Road?
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on December 04, 2016, 01:36:37 PM
Quote from: Laconian on December 04, 2016, 12:26:20 PM
Mazda3?

Maybe. I'm a bit wary of mid 2000s 3's if they're like the 6's. My mom's 6 hasn't held up super well.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: 2o6 on December 04, 2016, 02:39:40 PM
Minis suck
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on December 04, 2016, 07:33:51 PM
What about a 2nd gen Scion xB?
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: 2o6 on December 04, 2016, 08:06:12 PM
Quote from: CaminoRacer on December 04, 2016, 07:33:51 PM
What about a 2nd gen Scion xB?

2AZ suck
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: 2o6 on December 04, 2016, 08:07:34 PM
Seriously, tho. The Gen 1 car is so much better. The 2nd gen isn't very fun, and that 2AZ in there isn't the most reliable engine Toyota has made.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: 68_427 on December 05, 2016, 01:26:48 AM
:wub:

(http://www.motorstown.com/images/saturn-sw2-07.jpg)
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Eye of the Tiger on December 05, 2016, 06:04:18 AM
Twin Cam?
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Soup DeVille on December 05, 2016, 06:16:23 AM
Quote from: Eye of the Tiger on December 05, 2016, 06:04:18 AM
Twin Cam?

Twin dual cam!
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Eye of the Tiger on December 05, 2016, 07:11:19 AM
Dual Conjoined Identical Siamese Twin Cam?
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Laconian on December 05, 2016, 11:34:55 AM
Quote from: Eye of the Tiger on December 05, 2016, 06:04:18 AM
Twin Cam?
:nono:

C/\M
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Morris Minor on December 05, 2016, 02:41:28 PM
I had a business colleague who bought a used CVPI from a dealer that specializes in used cop cars. The thing's unbreakable & dirt cheap to run.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: 68_427 on December 06, 2016, 05:34:01 AM
(http://i.imgur.com/hyj6lix.jpg)


Stock stereo
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Eye of the Tiger on December 06, 2016, 06:08:06 AM
"Want a WRX wagon" = "I keep losing races. I beat the hell out of this and it's just not fast enough, even with all those rev limiter clutch dump launches. I put the stock stereo back in so nobody would suspect this used to have a huge turbo kit on it."
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Gotta-Qik-C7 on December 06, 2016, 06:23:24 AM
Quote from: 68_427 on December 06, 2016, 05:34:01 AM
Stock stereo
:ohyeah:

Quote from: Eye of the Tiger on December 06, 2016, 06:08:06 AM
"Want a WRX wagon" = "I keep losing races. I beat the hell out of this and it's just not fast enough, even with all those rev limiter clutch dump launches. I put the stock stereo back in so nobody would suspect this used to have a huge turbo kit on it."
:evildude:   :lol: :lol:
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: 68_427 on December 06, 2016, 12:47:10 PM
Pfffrt.  I think wrx rear dif with LSD bolts right up.  Find a wagon and you can even fit a fully dressed engine and trans combo in the back
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on December 06, 2016, 12:55:08 PM
I hauled my (now exploded) engine in the back of a rental HHR. Stopped at a Jegs warehouse in Columbus and a forklift loaded the crate into the back.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on December 12, 2016, 09:14:07 PM
HHR SS or Fiesta ST?
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Gotta-Qik-C7 on December 12, 2016, 09:23:08 PM
HHR
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Eye of the Tiger on December 12, 2016, 09:28:13 PM
Hhhhhhhhhhhhr lol no

Fiesta
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: BimmerM3 on December 12, 2016, 09:28:50 PM
Fiesta ST. Fun car.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on December 12, 2016, 10:33:29 PM
Fiesta is more fun, but more expensive and smaller.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: 68_427 on December 12, 2016, 10:52:07 PM
You can probably pick up a HHR SS for like $7K.  I'd do that. 
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: 2o6 on December 13, 2016, 12:04:51 AM
Fiesta ST is 3x the price of an HHR SS.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Eye of the Tiger on December 13, 2016, 06:07:54 AM
HHR. Welcome to Heritage.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: MexicoCityM3 on December 13, 2016, 10:48:50 AM
Quote from: CaminoRacer on December 02, 2016, 12:40:23 PM
Under $2000, 4 doors preferably. Reliability or easy maintenance a plus.

How about this legendary hot hatch for about $3,500....

http://auto.mercadolibre.com.mx/MLM-570487524-renault-clio-3p-sport-5vel-piel-cd-2004-_JM
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Soup DeVille on December 13, 2016, 11:02:17 AM
Quote from: MexicoCityM3 on December 13, 2016, 10:48:50 AM
How about this legendary hot hatch for about $3,500....

http://auto.mercadolibre.com.mx/MLM-570487524-renault-clio-3p-sport-5vel-piel-cd-2004-_JM

"Reliability and easy maintenance" must translate badly.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on December 17, 2016, 02:25:07 PM
http://www.ksl.com/auto/listing/3408241?ad_cid=17

1993 Corolla, manual, 125k miles, $2000
y/n?
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Gotta-Qik-C7 on December 17, 2016, 08:10:07 PM
I can't see it.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: 2o6 on December 17, 2016, 08:51:01 PM
Quote from: CaminoRacer on December 17, 2016, 02:25:07 PM
http://www.ksl.com/auto/listing/3408241?ad_cid=17

1993 Corolla, manual, 125k miles, $2000
y/n?


you can do better
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on December 17, 2016, 08:52:01 PM
Quote from: Gotta-Qik-C6 on December 17, 2016, 08:10:07 PM
I can't see it.


Must be sold already
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: SVT_Power on December 21, 2016, 09:44:20 AM
Best Jalopy?

Versa S.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on December 26, 2016, 10:22:09 PM
Wildcard: E30?
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on December 26, 2016, 10:51:13 PM
E30 + SBC swap
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: 2o6 on December 27, 2016, 08:14:30 AM
idk man, good E30's are rare, and I thought you wanted a boring car to drive every day?
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Eye of the Tiger on January 01, 2017, 05:44:44 PM
Volvo 240 with SBC

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cf04DoX3O64

/thread
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on January 17, 2017, 10:36:08 AM
Been driving a 2009 Civic (automatic) the past few weeks. Love it. New frontrunner is a similar vintage Si with 6 speed. I think I prefer sedans over hatchbacks and I want something that's small-ish but can still cruise comfortably on roadtrips and fit normal humans in the back seat. If not for that last point, a Mini would be the top choice.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on February 19, 2017, 11:38:51 AM
Jeep Cherokee or Izuzu Trooper can meet my original criteria. I think those are the new frontrunners. Cool looking, fits more people than El Camino, can take it camping in Moab.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Rupert on February 19, 2017, 09:18:42 PM
Trooper is much bigger than the Cherokee. Suggest the first generation with the 4-cyl and a stick. So slow it's fun!
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Raza on February 20, 2017, 04:54:31 AM
Quote from: CaminoRacer on January 17, 2017, 10:36:08 AM
Been driving a 2009 Civic (automatic) the past few weeks. Love it. New frontrunner is a similar vintage Si with 6 speed. I think I prefer sedans over hatchbacks and I want something that's small-ish but can still cruise comfortably on roadtrips and fit normal humans in the back seat. If not for that last point, a Mini would be the top choice.

Si from that generation should cost something like $9,000 or less.  That's a lot of car for the money.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: 68_427 on February 20, 2017, 05:38:55 AM
Yeah V-tec is hella fun too
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Eye of the Tiger on February 20, 2017, 06:47:18 AM
Quote from: Rupert on February 19, 2017, 09:18:42 PM
Trooper is much bigger than the Cherokee. Suggest the first generation with the 4-cyl and a stick. So slow it's fun!

Here, i help

(https://images.craigslist.org/00d0d_jPp5C5yCNtt_1200x900.jpg)
https://greenville.craigslist.org/cto/6003237323.html
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Cookie Monster on February 20, 2017, 12:42:51 PM
Damn, that Trooper is sweet.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: giant_mtb on February 20, 2017, 01:19:45 PM
I like the custom tree carcass bumper. :rockon:
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Rupert on February 20, 2017, 03:23:44 PM
I should have fixed the second one I had. I probably could have kept it until the XTerra.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Eye of the Tiger on February 20, 2017, 04:03:11 PM
You guise wire me the money and I'll go buy it for you. I can even deliver it once I get LANDtruck fixed up.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: 93JC on February 23, 2017, 02:40:13 PM
Quote from: CaminoRacer on February 19, 2017, 11:38:51 AM
Jeep Cherokee or Izuzu Trooper can meet my original criteria. I think those are the new frontrunners. Cool looking, fits more people than El Camino, can take it camping in Moab.

Quote from: Rupert on February 19, 2017, 09:18:42 PM
Trooper is much bigger than the Cherokee. Suggest the first generation with the 4-cyl and a stick. So slow it's fun!

Trooper is much bigger than Cherokee, but don't get a first-gen. with the four-banger...
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Xer0 on February 23, 2017, 03:21:17 PM
Quote from: Raza  on February 20, 2017, 04:54:31 AM
Si from that generation should cost something like $9,000 or less.  That's a lot of car for the money.

Those cars are actually holding their value really well.  Unless its an 06 with like 150k miles, you're not getting it for under 10k.  At least in the Chicagoland area.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Raza on February 23, 2017, 10:31:12 PM
Quote from: Xer0 on February 23, 2017, 03:21:17 PM
Those cars are actually holding their value really well.  Unless its an 06 with like 150k miles, you're not getting it for under 10k.  At least in the Chicagoland area.

Unless the prices bounced after the new Civic came out, that wasn't the case in the Philadelphia area.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: 68_427 on February 24, 2017, 03:11:03 AM
Prices stopped going down once the 9th gen Civic came out.  The K20 fanboyism as made prices hold steady, or even raise values slightly.

The pre-facelift ones are noticeable cheaper though.  Those are still relatively affordable
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: 68_427 on February 24, 2017, 03:26:50 AM
https://www.cargurus.com/Cars/inventorylisting/viewDetailsFilterViewInventoryListing.action?sourceContext=carGurusHomePage_false_0&formSourceTag=112&newSearchFromOverviewPage=true&inventorySearchWidgetType=AUTO&entitySelectingHelper.selectedEntity=c3833&entitySelectingHelper.selectedEntity2=c22470&zip=14468&distance=50000&searchChanged=true&modelChanged=false&filtersModified=true#listing=162134972

That's a bit of an outlier, and the only one under $6k.  If you want under 100k miles you're spending over $10k
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: BimmerM3 on February 24, 2017, 10:20:05 PM
Quote from: Rupert on February 19, 2017, 09:18:42 PM
Trooper is much bigger than the Cherokee. Suggest the first generation with the 4-cyl and a stick. So slow it's fun!

Yeah I was very surprised at how small the old Cherokees were when I looked at one in person. Also it was like $3k more for a manual one than a nearly identical automatic.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on February 24, 2017, 11:03:07 PM
Quote from: BimmerM3 on February 24, 2017, 10:20:05 PM
Yeah I was very surprised at how small the old Cherokees were when I looked at one in person. Also it was like $3k more for a manual one than a nearly identical automatic.

My dad had two when I was a kid. Seem like the perfect size to me
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: giant_mtb on February 26, 2017, 10:33:14 AM
Quote from: BimmerM3 on February 24, 2017, 10:20:05 PM
Yeah I was very surprised at how small the old Cherokees were when I looked at one in person. Also it was like $3k more for a manual one than a nearly identical automatic.

I'd rather have an automatic off road anyways. 
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on February 26, 2017, 10:39:22 AM
Quote from: giant_mtb on February 26, 2017, 10:33:14 AM
I'd rather have an automatic off road anyways. 

+1

I know hardcore guys prefer a manual, but I don't trust myself to not roast the clutch on big obstacles
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Gotta-Qik-C7 on February 26, 2017, 11:31:33 AM
Quote from: CaminoRacer on February 26, 2017, 10:39:22 AM
+1

I know hardcore guys prefer a manual, but I don't trust myself to not roast the clutch on big obstacles
:hesaid:
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: MrH on February 26, 2017, 06:16:12 PM
https://cincinnati.craigslist.org/cto/6021084206.html
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Cookie Monster on February 27, 2017, 10:23:31 AM
Quote from: CaminoRacer on February 26, 2017, 10:39:22 AM
+1

I know hardcore guys prefer a manual, but I don't trust myself to not roast the clutch on big obstacles

Clutch bypass for the starter will get you over whatever you need.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on March 02, 2017, 06:06:17 PM
http://www.ksl.com/auto/listing/3536205?ad_cid=1

I'm leaving town tomorrow but I might call this guy next week.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Soup DeVille on March 02, 2017, 06:49:49 PM
Quote from: CaminoRacer on February 26, 2017, 10:39:22 AM
+1

I know hardcore guys prefer a manual, but I don't trust myself to not roast the clutch on big obstacles

Put it in low low, and don't use the clutch. Just keep it rolling.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: 93JC on March 02, 2017, 07:39:45 PM
Quote from: Cookie Monster on February 27, 2017, 10:23:31 AM
Clutch bypass for the starter will get you over whatever you need.

lel, "bypass"; '96 and earlier Cherokees don't have clutch-starter interlocks. :lol:

Quote from: BimmerM3 on February 24, 2017, 10:20:05 PM
Yeah I was very surprised at how small the old Cherokees were when I looked at one in person.

They're about the same size as a modern-day Renegade, but a few inches shorter in height.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Soup DeVille on March 02, 2017, 07:57:58 PM
My '95 Wrangler didn't have one either.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Raza on March 03, 2017, 04:24:03 PM
Quote from: CaminoRacer on March 02, 2017, 06:06:17 PM
http://www.ksl.com/auto/listing/3536205?ad_cid=1

I'm leaving town tomorrow but I might call this guy next week.

Get it.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on March 06, 2017, 02:52:13 PM
Mini is sold.

But there's a decent looking Cherokee

http://www.ksl.com/auto/listing/3561123?ad_cid=5

(http://i.imgur.com/q98G8D6.jpg)
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Gotta-Qik-C7 on March 06, 2017, 03:04:32 PM
I've been Eye Balling this for a couple weeks!
https://www.cars.com/vehicledetail/detail/688614002/overview/
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on March 09, 2017, 06:44:11 PM
I can't decide if 100% stock or modified but well taken care of (like this one appears to be) is better.

Of course he says it has a new transmission but doesn't mention the engine. 275k is a ton of miles if it's the original engine. Usually they have been rebuilt after 175k.

http://www.ksl.com/auto/listing/3568718?ad_cid=16

(http://i.imgur.com/H9dN8Kz.jpg)
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: MrH on March 09, 2017, 08:56:01 PM
Lol that ad.

He says the price is negotiable, but less than $1800 and he'll keep some of the audio stuff. Clearly he's not expecting $2300 then. Offer $1800 firm if you want the audio, even less if you don't care. Doesn't seem like a bad price. If the engine dies, would be a relatively easy engine swap I'd imagine.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on March 30, 2017, 08:27:50 AM
Neither are jalopies but whatever

~2013 Cruze or ~2010 Civic. Stickshift. Cruze would have less miles for the same price
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: 2o6 on March 30, 2017, 09:17:25 AM
Quote from: CaminoRacer on March 30, 2017, 08:27:50 AM
Neither are jalopies but whatever

~2013 Cruze or ~2010 Civic. Stickshift. Cruze would have less miles for the same price

What engine is in that Cruze? Is it an Eco or an LT?


Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on March 30, 2017, 09:33:13 AM
Quote from: 2o6 on March 30, 2017, 09:17:25 AM
What engine is in that Cruze? Is it an Eco or an LT?




This is just in general. Which engine is better? Without knowing much about them I'd probably go with an LT by default.

Civic wise, I'd probably go with an EX.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: 2o6 on March 30, 2017, 09:56:25 AM
Quote from: CaminoRacer on March 30, 2017, 09:33:13 AM
This is just in general. Which engine is better? Without knowing much about them I'd probably go with an LT by default.

Civic wise, I'd probably go with an EX.


My Sonic has the same 1.4T and 6MT that are in the Cruze, but the Sonic's gearing is taller.


If it's an ECO, it's got the same engine, but a few little nifty tricks (even taller gearing than the regular LT) that save fuel.


However, the Cruze's steering is meh, and the car as a whole is more like an American Corolla, so not very engaging.


Also, stay away from the 1.8L. It's slower than the 1.4T, with worse economy and not as reliable. (Albeit, the Cruze is kinda midpack as far as staying together)




The Civic, I'd avoid the 2012 Refresh cars. The 2009+ Civic is a good car (aside from Sporty beating on his), with not much to go wrong. Sometimes they gobble up coolant and oil, but most Japanese cars do. Thing is, you can probably find a decent Si for about the same price as an EX.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on March 30, 2017, 10:05:07 AM
I've seen a couple Si's for similar prices, but they're a lot more rare. So it's avoid 2012, but by 2013 they're good again?

I really like the 2017 Sonics but obviously they're more expensive.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: 2o6 on March 30, 2017, 10:13:48 AM
You can get a Sonic like mine. I like mine a lot. LTZ Manual cars aren't super hard to find. Same with the Cruze, avoid the 1.8L. (easiest way to tell is that 1.8L Sonics are 5-speed manuals. 1.4T are 6-speeds)


The 2012 isn't *bad* but it's not great. The emergency refresh did a lot with interior quality, and steering and suspension tuning. I think the powertrain in the 2012 car is basically the same as the 2009-2011 car. But the 2013-2014 cars got a new engine.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on March 30, 2017, 10:25:45 AM
What's the RPM in your Sonic at 75-80 mph?
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: 2o6 on March 30, 2017, 10:31:57 AM
Quote from: CaminoRacer on March 30, 2017, 10:25:45 AM
What's the RPM in your Sonic at 75-80 mph?

2750RPM
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on March 30, 2017, 11:15:23 AM
Nice
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: shp4man on March 30, 2017, 03:02:15 PM
Ok, FYA. Best jalopy? '65 valiant. Fucking kids.  :fogey:

(http://st.hotrod.com/uploads/sites/21/2013/03/mopp-1303-01-z-valiant-300-1965-valiant.jpg)

:lol:

Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on March 30, 2017, 03:10:02 PM
What are those, 4.5" wide front wheels?
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: shp4man on March 30, 2017, 03:14:05 PM
Quote from: CaminoRacer on March 30, 2017, 03:10:02 PM
What are those, 4.5" wide front wheels?
Pizza cutters.  ;)
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: FoMoJo on March 30, 2017, 03:26:59 PM
Quote from: shp4man on March 30, 2017, 03:02:15 PM
Ok, FYA. Best jalopy? '65 valiant. Fucking kids.  :fogey:

(http://st.hotrod.com/uploads/sites/21/2013/03/mopp-1303-01-z-valiant-300-1965-valiant.jpg)

Nonsense^ :nutty:

V :praise:
(https://s15.postimg.org/y6vq9heyj/1964-ford-thunderbolt-front-side-tcb.jpg)
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: shp4man on March 30, 2017, 03:43:36 PM
Quote from: FoMoJo on March 30, 2017, 03:26:59 PM
Nonsense^ :nutty:

V :praise:
(https://s15.postimg.org/y6vq9heyj/1964-ford-thunderbolt-front-side-tcb.jpg)

Arguably, a Thunderbolt isn't a jalopy.  ;)
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on March 30, 2017, 03:58:41 PM
And I'd feel bad about driving either of those in the snow. I already have a muscle car!
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: MX793 on March 30, 2017, 04:03:45 PM
Quote from: CaminoRacer on March 30, 2017, 03:10:02 PM
What are those, 4.5" wide front wheels?

Front wheels are unimportant when they spend much of their time lofted off the ground.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: FoMoJo on March 30, 2017, 04:07:37 PM
Quote from: MX793 on March 30, 2017, 04:03:45 PM
Front wheels are unimportant when they spend much of their time lofted off the ground.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzkEviShBUw
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: MexicoCityM3 on March 30, 2017, 08:37:31 PM
This for US$1,000

http://auto.mercadolibre.com.mx/MLM-577898926-renault-r5-mod-76-_JM
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: MrH on March 30, 2017, 08:51:49 PM
I don't think the 2012 civics are bad exactly. Just disappointing for a new model compared to the previous one. If you can get a 2012 Si for cheap, go for it.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on June 18, 2017, 04:06:16 PM
(http://i.imgur.com/aXLAZCpm.jpg)

or

(http://i.imgur.com/2KhEQZdm.jpg)

Either car would be 2008ish, less than 100k miles.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: 68_427 on June 18, 2017, 04:36:06 PM
Kei car
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on June 18, 2017, 04:47:38 PM
Quote from: 68_427 on June 18, 2017, 04:36:06 PM
Kei car

Maybe if I swapped in a liter bike engine. Needs to do 85 mph on highway trips.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: 2o6 on June 18, 2017, 05:14:36 PM
The mazda
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Gotta-Qik-C7 on June 18, 2017, 07:57:10 PM
Quote from: 2o6 on June 18, 2017, 05:14:36 PM
The mazda
Yup!
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: 68_427 on June 19, 2017, 09:24:46 PM
Quote from: CaminoRacer on June 18, 2017, 04:47:38 PM
Maybe if I swapped in a liter bike engine. Needs to do 85 mph on highway trips.

Vmax V4.  Big displacement and NASCAR soundtrack
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on July 27, 2017, 09:06:14 PM
As I said in another thread, I test drove a 2009 Mini Cooper S on Monday and wasn't super impressed. Tonight I drove a 2014 Sonic hatch with the 1.8L and automatic. Not bad! Handles just as well as the Mini, wasn't really any slower than the Mini (I wasn't desperate for the 1.4T), and probably is three times more reliable. But man, the driver's seat is a tight fit for anyone over 6 feet tall. I think that's my main reservation, along with the torque converter constantly unlocking on the highway. Otherwise I liked it a lot.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: 2o6 on July 28, 2017, 01:09:37 PM
Quote from: CaminoRacer on July 27, 2017, 09:06:14 PM
As I said in another thread, I test drove a 2009 Mini Cooper S on Monday and wasn't super impressed. Tonight I drove a 2014 Sonic hatch with the 1.8L and automatic. Not bad! Handles just as well as the Mini, wasn't really any slower than the Mini (I wasn't desperate for the 1.4T), and probably is three times more reliable. But man, the driver's seat is a tight fit for anyone over 6 feet tall. I think that's my main reservation, along with the torque converter constantly unlocking on the highway. Otherwise I liked it a lot.


get the turbo.

The extra torque and economy is worth it. Also, the 1.4T is more reliable.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: CaminoRacer on August 01, 2017, 09:02:01 PM
I drove a Civic and a Corolla last Saturday. Civic was great, which I already knew. It drives exactly the way I want a car to drive - firm suspension but smooth over bumps, perfect steering weight and feedback, and plenty of power for everyday driving. I drove the Corolla right after and hated it after about 5 seconds. Suspension is rolly polly, steering is lifeless and overboosted. And it seemed to have less power.

Unfortunately, the El Camino's transmission is gonna put a 2nd car on hold for now. But I'll just look for a Civic when the time comes. I liked the Sonic, but the Civic drives just as well (if not a bit better) and has more legroom up front.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Cookie Monster on August 02, 2017, 06:15:55 PM
Get an older Corolla XRS. Debadge, put it on steelies and call it a day.
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: 2o6 on August 02, 2017, 10:58:03 PM
Quote from: Cookie Monster on August 02, 2017, 06:15:55 PM
Get an older Corolla XRS. Debadge, put it on steelies and call it a day.


The 2AZFE isnt a great motor

And the 2ZZ has notoriously shitty gearing
Title: Re: Best Jalopy
Post by: Raza on August 07, 2017, 04:47:56 AM
Quote from: CaminoRacer on June 18, 2017, 04:06:16 PM
(http://i.imgur.com/aXLAZCpm.jpg)

or

(http://i.imgur.com/2KhEQZdm.jpg)

Either car would be 2008ish, less than 100k miles.

Mini. If I recall correctly, while the Mazda is more reliable, it'll just rust away on you.