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I am looking at buying 2 really cheap cars under 2000 dollars each just 2 run around town . I need 2 cars with plenty of room as we are a big tall family. Ones that are ideally reasonably cheap to run. Both cars would probably end up doing only 15 - 20 k's a day. What size engine and what brand do you recommend. I am thinking Toyota 1.3-2.2 l size engines.

Cheers Geoff

Hi Geoff. Not wishing to dampen your enthusiasm, but purchasing a couple of reliable cars that are cheap to run in this price range will not be an easy task. You are right to be looking at the Toyota range you mention, however Toyotas tend to hold their value due to their reputation, so you may need to look at other brands. Preferably, stick to mainstream Japanese models. Avoid anything with excessive rust as the WOF inspection is now quite strict on rust and corrosion. Preferably go for manual gearboxes as autos can be expensive to repair. If you must have an auto, avoid earlier cars with CVT transmissions.
Ideally, have anything you decide upon inspected to reduce the risk. However, it goes without saying that any car in this price range is not without risk.