I'm looking for a small pickup to become my new daily, I have been checking out craigslist and there is a lot out there for $1k.
I search for $2k or less, that is what I WOULD like to spend.
My requirements (which maybe you can help me on) are:
Good mpg & reliable.
Truck so I can do house projects without calling friends for help all the time I need something decent sized moved and pick up car parts, while stuffing 1.5 sets of wheels and tires in a corolla is fun, its gets old quick.
Prefer 5 spd because I think it would be cheaper to replace a clutch than parts in a AT trans.
I would like 4x4, but being on a budget it looks like I won't end up with that.
From what I know my choices are:
Ranger/mazda pickup (Late 90s-03ish)
Isuzu pickup
toyota (of course) - but people want top dollar for these things.
Jeep comanche thing (I would prefer this because usually 4x4, and I6s are invincible and everywhere incase I have to replace) - I know the MPGs will be lower
Thank you for help/suggestions on this, with the hopefully soon sale of my DSM I will be without a running car, and the flintstone powered Z will be gone soon too.
I appreciate the help and once I get a truck you can call me to help move crap.
Aaron