Used Cars: Ford, hyundai sonata, ford escort zx2

Question
Hi, I think I recently asked you a question about buying a used car. My equity loan didn't go as well as hoped so now I can only spend $4000 and my trade in. It a 2001 Hyundai Sonata with 96k miles on it and front end damage. I drive it everyday, it's fine. But I only get 19 miles per gallon and this HAS to end! So I'm not finding a bunch of Civics or Corollas like I want in this this price range. And a big problem is that most used car places don't offer a warranty- except for 1 place. I would like to buy from them!

Anyway, my question is about the Ford Escort ZX2. I've spent alot of time researching the Civic and Corolla, but I found a well priced Ford Escort ZX2. Are they good cars? Will I get alot of miles out of them? I like the gas mileage OK. The one I'm looking at is $2888 and has 71k miles on it. Can you please tell me if it's about to die in a few miles or will it last to about 200k miles like the Civic and Corolla?
Thanks,
Lisa

Answer
Well let me start by saying.. its a ford escort with 71k and is only listed for 3000... a similar car in honda/toyota form would be listed for 4-6,000 dollars.. and for a reason... what year is the car? also.. is the 4000 including the trade in?? because if you just sold that sonata you will get more for it than if you trade it in, that would help your budget... I cannot tell you if it will die tomorrow, i can say its not a civic or corolla, so 200k would be a near impossible (read: very expensive) goal... It wont have the japanese build quality, it may be fine for up to 130k... it may die at 80... No way of knowing without having a mechanic look at it, and even then its a big gamble... try looking for at private sellers... dealers that sell cars in the 4000 dollar range are bad news most of the time... alot of the cars were wrecked or damaged cars... really risky... it gives up the warranty but if only one place has one on these cars you may have to risk it... plus if you go to a private seller you should be able to have a mechanic of your choice look at it, most dealers wont do that.. I cant really tell you more about the car (without looking at it personally), its a cheap price for a low miles car, but then again.. theres probably a reason for that... I'll say risky.. better to have a 100k miles civic that are known for being reliable than a 70k escort which you never hear of being reliable... just my opinion.. hope this helps.. if you have any other questions just ask, thanks!