Maybe. I'm probably approaching those kinds of numbers (I'm afraid to add it all up) and I don't believe there is any such thing as a "trouble free" 25 year old vehicle. You can certainly make them reliable (I drive mine all over the country without worrying about getting stuck), but there will always be a couple/few little things that need attention. Unfortunately, each of those "little things" usually costs $500. You really don't want to drive/own these things if tinkering with them stops being fun. Think of it as a hobby that also provides transportation. If the seat is a major concern, find a good upholstery shop and have them create a lumbar support for you.

If you just want cheap transportation, go buy the best $5000 honda you can find.