Automobiles are status symbols. We've all seen the stories about moguls with multi-story garages and huge luxury car collections. But for some people cheap cars are the way to go. It's doesn't have to be a clunker just because it doesn't cost a lot. Less expensive can still be functional, and even fun.



A used car purchase can save a lot of money. Even luxury models are much less expensive when purchased second handThere a much less expensive top model cars, at least when compared to the new versions. A whole new term has emerged for higher quality used vehicles - pre-owned. Pre-owned cars have pulled some new car lovers into the used car world. Consider top model cars. Some cars like the Mercedes are so well built they are still new feeling after a decade. A lot of people buy slightly used instead of new car after car.Driving Miss Daisy immortalized this concept as Hoak, the driver, kept buying Miss Daisy's used cars.

Some new cars are pretty inexpensive. Hyundai makes some models that are decent for less than $12K. A well engineered car like the Honda Civic is only around $15K. They get great mileage, last a long time, and retain original value very well. Cheaper cars are also generally less costly to maintain, and they don't require premium gasoline.

Try the cheaper, not really cheap, luxury cars. The Audi brand is generally at the bottom portion of the price spectrum in the luxury class. Nobody beats Audi as far as engineering. The Audi TT can be just as much fun as a Porsche, but much less expensive.

Some people aren't happy unless they scrape the bottom of the barrel cheap. They don't care if the car is held together with chewing gum and wire. Teens often buy this style of car. This type of car is good practice for a life of car care, and it gets the job done. But watch out, the age old adage “You get what you pay for" applies to cheap cars too. A car that constantly breaks down is no bargain at any price.