I purchased my 1996 Geo Prizm 5sp used in May of 2005. This little car only had 43,000 miles on it when I purhcased it from a retiree. He had no need for the car and as I knew it was a Toyota, I was very happy to get my hands on it. I paid him $3,000 which was the Kelly Blue Book value at the time.
The little blue car runs great, no problems whatsoever. I did change out the original Delco Stereo for a new CD player with new speakers. The original speakers were wasted away from the hot, balmy climate and literally fell apart as I removed them.
I also did a tune up installing new plugs and wires and I changed the oil and added a bottle of fuel injector cleaner to the gastank as well as a bottle of STP oil treatment to the oil. I also changed the wiper blades and tinted the windows slightly. The car has no bumps or dents and looks very nice. I also purchased and installed a K&N high flow air filter which helps the car breathe easier and saves gas/improves power.
I couldn't be happier with the car, gas is currently selling for $2.09 a gallon and it costs me just $21 to fill up this car. I can drive it extensively for a week before I have to fill it up again, I have no clue what these SUV drivers are thinking! They must spend $600 a month on gasoline.. not me!
Overall, I get about 27-28 city and 33-4 highway.. not bad for a 1996.
The five spead gearbox works very well and uses the little 1.6 liter engine effectively for all kinds of driving. I drove this car from Tampa to DC with no problems, no hiccups, it was very smooth on the highway, I was really amazed. I had some trepidation before I started such a long journey in the little Geo but my fears were unfounded, it just kept humming along like a sewing machine. I comfortably cruised on the highways at 75-85 miles per hour. The fifth gear is really great for the highway.
Overall, this has to be one of the best used car bargains around. These cars are available all over the place and if you look on the internet you just might be able to find yourself one at a low cost.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 3,000
Condition: Used Model Year: 1996 Model and Options: Prizm 5 speed
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