A car weakened by rust is very dangerous in a collision. You are playing with life and limb to drive a rusty car. These people are giving you heartfelt good advice. If you insist on driving a rusty car make sure that all of your affairs are in order and your insurance is paid-up.

Honestly, there are structurally sound cars available for under $1000. It would take a tremendous amount of misguided energy to cross that gap.

I didn't even bother to go look at a $1500 CD with a bad engine, still thinking about it though.