Buyer's Guide: List of the Best Used Cars Until 2000 (2023)

Buying a car has always been a challenge for many. Whether new or used, there are many factors to consider, most notably the budget. If you're working on a tight budget, say $2000 or less, there are still reliable used cars that can get the job done and also fill the bill.

Buying a used car on a tight budget doesn't have to be a daunting task. To help you uncover the hidden gems in the used car market, we have compiled a list of the best used car pre 2000 options available:

1. Toyota Corolla der 7. Generation

Toyota has proven itself in terms of durability and reliability. It's not for nothing that we start the list with the 7th generation Toyota Corolla, which spans the 1993-1997 model year. The Toyota Corolla has always been at the lower end of the compact car price spectrum, making it a popular choice for those looking for affordable, reliable everyday transport.

The 7th generation Toyota Corolla might not be the best compared to the latest generations of Toyota Corolla, but it certainly ticks the boxes of the best used car you can buy for under $2000. They have two decades of proven efficiency when it comes to fuel economy and reliability.

The 7th generation Toyota Corolla is basically durable with engines and powertrains carried over from previous generations. They also have good after-sales support, which makes finding replacement parts easier. Corrosion can be an issue due to its age, but it can be dealt with with proper repair and maintenance. Most 7th generation Toyota Corollas under $2,000 on the market have clocked over 100,000 kilometers, but you can still drive them up to 300,000 miles or more with proper and scheduled maintenance.

2. Toyota Camry der 4. Generation

The Toyota Camry is a mid-size sedan with plenty of interior space, making it a practical family car. A Camry's standard powertrain makes fuel economy ideal for the daily commute and even long trips. They are considered extremely reliable due to their performance and security improvements.

Thanks to the already affordable MSRP, you don't have to spend a fortune to get a used Toyota Camry. You may be surprised to find many models from the '90s and early '00s for less than $2,000.

3. Toyota RAV-4 of the 1st generation

Another Toyota made the list, but this one is a compact crossover SUV. The Toyota RAV-4 appeals to those looking for a vehicle with the benefits of an SUV and the fuel economy of a compact car. The 1st generation Toyota RAV-4, spanning model years 1996 to 2001, was built on the same platform as the Toyota Corolla, making it just as reliable.

Since it is a popular vehicle in the US, upgrades can be easily made. The choice of tires is also huge, you can improve off-road use by installing Open Country Toyo tires, for example. Finding a used RAV-4 AWD for under $2000 can be a challenging task. Although you can find a used front wheel drive version readily available.

4. Honda Agreement

If you are looking for a spacious sedan that fits your budget, a Honda Accord could be just the right choice for you. There are many used models from 1996 through the early 2000's that you can pick up for $2000 or less. We highly recommend going for the ones with a VTEC engine as they tend to run well and last longer.

The Honda Accord is built with good ergonomics. Its double wishbone suspension improved on-road stability. The improved handling is also an advantage. Replacement parts are cheap and easy to find, so you can work on them with ease. With routine maintenance, it can last at least 300,000 miles or more.

5. 2005 Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V is another compact crossover SUV that made the list. The 2005 model year is the best model you can buy for under $2000. Although most used Honda CR-Vs at this price point have around 120,000 mileage on them. As with the Toyota RAV-4, you're unlikely to find a used Honda CR-V AWD for this price. A used front wheel drive version is quite common and would suffice provided it was properly maintained by the previous owner.

You will be satisfied with its decent handling and reliability. It also has a smooth-running engine, good fuel economy, and plenty of cargo space and legroom for a comfortable ride.

This SUV is surprisingly tough and tough. Many 4WDs have been converted to off-road vehicles because of the ease of installing the right off-road equipment on them. You can change those toowheels and tiresto accommodate weather-specific tires or off-road tires.

6. Honda Civic der 6. Generation

The Honda Civic is a popular family car because it's durable, bulletproof, and inexpensive. You can still find these old Honda Civics on the street as many still use them. It's a testament to its proven reliability and durability.

Used 1996-2000 model year 6th generation Honda Civics are widely available for under $2000. You can even bargain the asking price down to $1500 - a good deal for anyone looking for a used car. Parts are cheap and plentiful, so it's easy to maintain and work with.

7. Ford Crown Victoria

The Ford Crown Victoria is known for being widely used by police forces across the country. This full-size 4-door sedan has a 4.6-liter V8 engine under the hood and has good gas mileage on the highway. It features a durable construction that allows it to endure many years of use and countless hours of inactivity.

There are ex-Interceptors with around 120,000 miles for under $2000 if you want more power in terms of performance and longevity. While there can be issues here and there, with proper care they can last well over 250,000 miles.

8. Ford Ranger

Who says you can't buy a truck for just $2000? Ford Ranger is your number one choice here if you are looking for the cheapest used mid-size pickup truck. The Ford Ranger is a popular alternative utility vehicle because it's cheap compared to the Ford F-Series truck and Toyota Tacoma.

2nd and 3rd generation Ford Rangers are incredibly adequate as both work and off-road vehicles. They have a towing capacity of 2,300 pounds to 6,000 pounds depending on the model year and towing package equipped. They also have a variety of bed and cabin configurations to choose from. With so many Ford Rangers out there these days, aftermarket parts and even truck accessories are widely available and affordable.

9. Nissan Sentra

The Nissan Sentra is an economical sedan that will appeal to those looking for sporty or economical driving. While the 1995-1999 model year lacks the technological features and amenities of the newer model, they are known for being practical. They have excellent fuel economy, well-controlled driving and lack of body noise.

Given the low price, it's easy to search for a used 1995-1999 Nissan Sentra for under $2,000. There is no doubt that it can compete head-on with Toyota and Honda in terms of value for money.

10. Nissan Maxima

Emphasizing its distinctive sporty looks, the Nissan Maxima is quite a popular option for those looking for a high-performance car for under $2000. Most Nissan Maximas that you can find at this price point are from the 1995 to 1999 model years.

The Nissan Maxima is known for having one of the best engines in its class. It is smooth and quiet and can provide you with a lot of power. The transmission is also silky smooth for comfortable rides and handling. It can also last a long time as long as it is properly maintained and regularly repaired.

Finding a car under $2000 is not an easy task as you need to meticulously search for one that can drive you at least another 100,000 miles. It takes time, effort and research to find the right car, in good condition and at the best possible price. There are always cheap used cars that are still fun to drive.