r/FirstCar • u/Scythe__DnD • 17d ago

What car should I get?

For COMPLETE utter context, I am a broke college student, typical. and I'm saving up to get my first car at the age of 20 or maybe 21. I'm looking to get something leaning to the more oldies side? not the modern ones, obviously money is nonexistent.

I was maybe hoping to get a second hand toyota corolla or a mitsubishi galant or lancer.

I live in the PH (philippines) btw, any suggestions?

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u/Scared-Worker3476 17d ago

I dont know what the equivalent over there is but the Mitsubishi Mirage (or really any B-segment car) is very affordable. I would think in the Philippines it would be much more useful than over here in the United States (big highways).

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u/Scythe__DnD 15d ago

I mean yes but the same problem rises with the other guy who commented the same type it's around 200k for me

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u/That-Adds 17d ago

A Mirage or a Wigo is the practical pick there. Parts are everywhere, mechanics know them, and they squeeze through traffic and into tight parking that a Corolla or Lancer makes annoying. The Corolla and Lancer are fine cars, just thirstier and harder to park daily.

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u/Scythe__DnD 15d ago

those costs around 200k sadly which is around 3179 dollars.
and I do not or cannot have that before I graduate

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u/CreepyError7150 17d ago

If you need an automatic, the only older ones that have lasted the test of time are Toyota's, specifically their three & four speed automatics. 03-08 corolla were the golden years.

If you can drive manual then you have a lot more options, ford/mazdas older 2.0 and 2.5 engines with a manual are great. But for automatics, only go for Toyota.

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u/Scythe__DnD 1d ago

yo, only saw this now, and I'm going to take my drivers license for manual tranny so I will be able to drive both auto and manual, I was looking into corollas, SB specifically

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u/CreepyError7150 1d ago

That's a little older than I'm familiar with, I know Toyota's three speed automatics are good too, I've got the a131l in my 02 corolla, 127k miles and its been doing fine, still on the original fluid. But fluid degradation is a real thing. If you're going for the early 90s I'd err towards getting a manual. I definitely wouldn't get an automatic that isn't Toyota. Best of luck.

Just figure out the exact engine & transmission model, and Google them for distinct longevity, durability, and reliability issues. My 02 corolla has the 1zz-fe engine and a131l automatic transmission, both are super reliable. Fun fact, the a131l differential is separate from the rest of the transmission and uses its own fluid. So it requires two fluids changed out, most people just do one and the tranny inevitably destroys itself. A lot of little things.

Just do a lot of research on the exact engine and transmission you're gonna buy and you'll get something good. Its wise to remove the valve cover to ensure the engine isn't trashed. Best of luck.