I would look for a Volvo in your situation-

8-10K is way too much for one in GREAT shape, so you'd have some money left over.

The downside of all the other cars mentioned is how pricey repairs can be, and how hard it is to work on newer computer-driven vehicles yourself. I like a Subaru wagon, but the rear struts go on those all the time, and the engine compartment is silly stuffed.

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