Tips on Buying Cars: Best Car Value, volvo 240, older cars

Question
Hi there,
I am a volunteer in another category and  are looking for an automotive expert to advise and assist me in my search for a used vehicle. The car is for general commute about 1 hour /day freeway driving. It is for my wife and she would like something like an older Honda Civic. We live in Oregon so most older cars stay in nice shape here in the west.  Our budget is about $3000, and our problem is deciding between an older (91-94) Honda, Toyota, etc,, or a newer (98-99) domestic car., for about the same price. Everything we are looking at is at around 100,000 miles. What are your recommendations for a reliable, economical, and nice looking car? Saturn? Mitsubishi? Acura? ..we have no clue!
What kind of car will give us the most car for our dollar? Are there specific models and years you would focus on?  She prefers a coupe but is okay with a sedan, anything to surely stay AWAY from?
Any advice you could give us we would greatly appreciate your expert opinion.
Thank You!
IOU
Lou


Answer
Lou, the obvious answer is that the price of the older cars vs the same price on newer domestics is that you get what you pay for.  Newer domestics are very close to imports in quality and still sell for less but not as little as you are looking for.  I have had several of my people have great luck with the older Mazda Proteges as long as they have been well maintained.  Also, if you can find one I love the older Volvo 240's.  Built like a tank, safest vehicle around and simple to maintain.  But as usual the choick will be what you find that you like and that fits your needs.  Best of luck to you and your wife.  Bud