Originally posted by pabloquintana:
Here is my price range:

US$ 2,400 to US$ 3,000

I bought the Contour for US$ 2,400 last year.

Then I have to add the import cost to that, that could be well another US$ 2,500. So, that is why the range is low.

Key features are: sedan, power (3.0 L max considering US$ 3.20 per gallon price in Honduras) and a nice instrument cluster. I don't know if it's just me, but that part is really important.



It's hard to imagine you'll be able to get into a '01+ Taurus or similar-vintage Stratus for that kind of bank roll, unless you can nab a high-mileage one at auction prices. You'll have to look back a few more years to get to that price range.

You could find an early Gen 4 Maxima, but it'll be with miles or high wear. Awesome instrument cluster, BTW. Same goes for a late 3rd/early 4th gen Camry, but the V6 models are sometimes tough to come by and command a premium.

Sounds like you're generally considering midsize...have you thought of something smaller like a Corolla or Civic? A late 90's Corolla -- while fantastically boring -- is within reason and can return great mileage and ruggedness. Power isn't mind-bending, but acceptable if you like to row your own gears.

B. Riley Melbourne, FL '01 Camry LE V6/5-spd Was: '00 Black/Tan SVT Contour #560 - Sold 3/26/03 Before that: '95 Champ/Blue Contour GL V6 ATX