Had to pick between a $1,500 rust bucket and a $4,000 beater with 180k miles

Last month I was stuck choosing between two cars under 5 grand. One was a 2002 Civic with surface rust but only 120k miles for $1,500. The other was a 2005 Corolla with clean body but 180k miles for $4,000. I went with the Civic because I figured I could fix rust for cheap and pocket the extra cash. Three weeks in and I've already welded new rocker panels and replaced the radiator for under $300 total. Still running strong but that rust keeps finding new spots. Anyone else take the cheaper option and end up with hidden problems down the road?

2 comments

2 Comments

robertb306d ago

But didn't that rust bucket cost ya way more in time and welding?

wilson.claire6d ago

Honestly, isn't that kind of the deal with anything cheap in life? You pay less up front but you end up trading your own time and sweat to make up for it. It's like buying a cheap house that you know needs work, you're never really done fixing things, just managing the next surprise.