Originally Posted By: supton
Good info. Thanks. More or less confirms what I thought.
I doubt I will go older than 5 years old though (probably can't stay inside the $5k budget). I can't see replacing a 10 year old car with an even older car. I also like my ABS, and safety features, even if I don't plan to use them. ABS, well... Since it's there it generally activates once/month in winter. Not during panic stops but generally one wheel locks up. After driving for years with ABS I'm just not going back, I never really learned how to pump the brake and I don't see a reason to do so now.
I *think* Matrix had some bearing issues in the stick. I know the Pontiac Vibe is its sister vehicle, so I do know to cross shop that. I think I'm going to email my insurance rep and see what the insurance prices are between these vehicles, see if there is a large gap.
I'm actually leaning towards a sedan this time. It's weird, I've long liked station wagons. But my truck is my wagon now, this commuter is purely for commuting. It seems weird but I think I want a sedan.
I wasn't suggesting you go get an old Corolla or anything! Just pointing out the performance difference between manual and automatic equipped Corollas.