10 BEST CARS YOU CAN BUY UNDER $3K (in 2024!)

Ready to hit the road without breaking the bank? 🚗💸
Well buckle up! because we've scoured the market to bring you the Best Cars Under $3,000!. From the rally-inspired Subaru Impreza 2.5RS to the timeless elegance of the BMW E36, we're revving up your car knowledge and taking you on a full-throttle ride through the top 10 budget-friendly chariots. 🏁✨ Whether you're a tuner enthusiast, a luxury lover, or just looking for a reliable ride, we've got something for everyone. And trust me, these aren't your average beaters; they're icons of reliability, style, and performance that won't leave you stranded or your wallet empty. 🛠️🤑
So, let's dive into the details, laugh at some terrible car puns, and find out WHY these rides are much more than just a way to get from A to B: They're the start of your automotive adventure!
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00:00 Introduction
00:15 Subaru 2.5RS
01:14 Shop Ideal!
01:25 BMW 318
02:34 Acura TL
03:19 Chevrolet Corvette C4
04:21 Mitsubishi Eclipse (2G)
05:12 Toyota Celica GT
06:09 Scrion TC
06:56 Honda Fit
07:51 Honda CRV
08:44 Honda Civic (EG)

[chasetillman]

I love how many times a year they rehash this same video with the same 50 cars, and I watch it every time. Great videos guys

[ntheria]

where are you finding a Eclipse 2g for even around 3k

[christopherlowery]

I've had 3 EG civics and 1 EF.
Awesome first cars. You can drive em like you stole em all day. "Red line every time" was my motto and I really stuck to it. The last one I had I sold for $600 @270k mi. The rear end really needs better grip over stock, which should include some buff sway bars to keep that rear trailing during tight turns. Not to mention needing some good coilovers. There's a ton of aftermarket support for these cars and a lot of the engine bay can be swapped between the EG and the EK generations, such as engine mounts, transmissions, engines, ECUs, etc. What's more, doing a B18 swap on one of these is pretty easy. Around a decade ago when I worked on these the most, you could pickup a used D15 engine for $500. A new imported JDM engine would run around $4k. I was swapping starters and alternators for $80 per. Parts were cheap and plentiful.
Water pumps and timing belts were 2hr jobs. I did a trans swap with my brother, which included the clutch, in 4hrs flat.
Most of the gaskets are formed, meaning the RTV guesswork isn't needed. Maintenance is also super easy. The intake, the exhaust, the fuel injectors, even the fuel filter are all really easy to get to. It might take 30min to replace a starter. It's right on top of the transmission, you don't even need to jack up the car. Not to mention the entire oil pan can be pulled just by removing the downpipe.
For a fledgeling auto enthusiast, there is no better platform for getting your hands dirty and maintaining a vehicle that's very forgiving of loads of abuse. I'm personally a fan of the SOHC D16Z6 found in the EX and Si models. It's not a powerhouse out of the gate, but these can be boosted for under $3k (T3 turbo kit plus PnP ECU). The engine will take around 10psi without modding any of the internals.
There are some drawbacks though. The block is aluminum, open deck, and sleved. Meaning, to get serious power out of these engines, serious money needs to be spent.

If you're looking for over 200hp from an NA 2.0 engine, look no further than a JDM spec K20A, found in the 01-06 Civic and Integra Type Rs.

If I didn't love RWD so much, I'd still be driving Civics. Honda knows what's up when it comes to maintenance-driven engineering.

Great video, a lot of good cars on this list. Not so sure about the Celica. The older ones I can get behind, but I've never liked the one featured here. I get Echo vibes from that car. The Celica Scotty has/had is about the newest I'll go with that model. Like the Tiburon, that car has always just looked ugly to me. The older Celicas were win.

Until next time,
Cheers.

[danielsimpson]

i grew up with a TC and i can confidently say it was the most fun car i’ve ever owned

[sosinade]

thanks for this video im still to young to buy a car well drive one at least but im still looking for a nice ride for when i get my license and these are cars i like a lot

[aqop]

Would like to see cobalt ss on the list but its just out of budget range i guess

[calvinunroe]

I have had 7 e36s and don't regret not one lol

[jakedehart]

you cant find a 2 door 2.5 rs for 3k not unless it is crumbling

[TheMAC]

Do the top 10 ideal trucks under $3000

[CVETTELT]

If you find a 92-96 C4 for 3 grand or under its going to be a huge project car!!! You ain't buying a say a 94 corvette that runs and drives for 3 Gs!! If you find one that cheap it's going to need to be towed home!!! The low blue book on my 92 is $7, 200 with needs TLC! Tender loving care!!!

[cheetopuff]

I’m taking the Eg. It only came with the single cam engines in America but they’re indestructible. They handle great, they get good gas mileage even with mods, they look great, and your parents won’t yell at you for wanting an Audi.

[Spoods]

I heard the Celica and the C4 corvette came with some oil pump issues

[MLK_Sold_Black_america_out]

The TC can get a factory blower from TRD 😅

[posxd]

What about Toyota celica vii if I get one for little under 4, 5k.

[sosinade]

hay can you possibly put the gen3 Mitsubishi eclipse on one of these videos my dad owns one and i think its a good car because me and my dad have had it for a while now and not to many problems have popped up dont have to ofc but i would like to see it happen (btw they are cheap)

[zenk]

I had a 05 Impreza 2.5RS with the 5 speed manual I wracked it sadly totaled it 😢

[mostly_baseball]

I am taking either the Civic or the CRV just can't beat that Honda reliability

[SlyRecord]

If i had 3k rn, the C4 would be an insta grab, though i like my

[MR.X-C]

95-04 v6 mustang the 3.8 is reliable and paired with the manual it’s fun

[shamalkasamarakoon]

How much would it cost for a Safari Impreza? Seeking real advice here. Great vid as always brad!❤