What’s the most reliable vehicle from your experience in the last 30 years that you would pay top dollar for today and drive it everyday rather than buy a new car?

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Jewbacca522@reddit

Absolutely unstoppable. Who knew over building and understressing an engine would make it last at minimum 500k miles with nothing more than basic fluid changes?

/s for anyone wondering.

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neuromorph@reddit

Not in the know. What did they do to the LS400?

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Admiral_peck@reddit

It has a 4 liter v8 making very little power out the box

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cronx42@reddit

250hp when released I believe, 300hp by the mid to late 90's. Not exactly very little power for a 4L V8 back then. They were above average power for the size of the engine.

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Admiral_peck@reddit

By American v8 standards yes, but put a 80's-90's dual overhead cam engine against our antiquated pushrod bullshit from the 60's and its always gonna look like it makes a lotta power per inch.

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The V8 that Toyota/Lexus designed is extremely robust, while at the same time having a very modest factory output, hence “under stressed”. It was tuned extremely conservative in order to reduce the strain on the internals. This led to a much longer than normal service life and a reputation for being nearly indestructible.

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CarelessCoconut5307@reddit

the ls400 was the vehicle that Lexus was introduced with. they overengineered the shit out of it to compete with mercedez and the like. they claim to have sank over 1 million man hours in creating it. the 1uz, the v8 engine it has, is very robust

mine has 305k miles on it rn.

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Hotdogpizzathehut@reddit

This explains it! https://youtu.be/i8F6CBjfx4k?si=Wf5PTjIcbrqzzb-7

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EntrepreneurNo5012@reddit

Mine had about 430k miles. Every seal that touched oil would leak, but yeah, it would just keep running.

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jessbyrne727@reddit

I own an automotive shop and just bought a ‘94 LS from a customer. The thing is clean and only has 42k miles on it. And it has a car phone lol. One of the best, most reliable cars ever built. https://imgur.com/gallery/2RdeLN4

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32carsandcounting@reddit

I miss my 94, one of my favorite cars. Some parts are super hard/impossible to find for them unfortunately.

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jeepsies@reddit

Same

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Prairie-Peppers@reddit

The 90s-2010s Toyotas have the rep they have for a reason.

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txdesigner-musician@reddit

My Scion xD was amazing.

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dogsaybark@reddit

I had a Scion XA. Stick shift. I loved that car. Wife made me dump it mostly because she can’t drive a stick. Since then I have had several nicer more expensive vehicles, but nothing has compared to that bulletproof Scion.

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txdesigner-musician@reddit

Ugh yes, agreed! I’ve been surprised to still see some xD’s in the road - I always wish that I had figured a way to keep mine. I did wear mine to the ground, in the end. That little trooper took me and my daughter on my favorite cross-country trek from Texas through New Mexico through Arizona through California through Utah through Colorado and back down. Amongst countless other epic trips. I moved across the nation twice with him. I do miss him. 🥰

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seanguay@reddit

08 highlander is still my daily driver. It has 200k miles on it and I’ve put about $4k total into it besides oil changes and tires. I bought it December 31st 2008 with 7k miles

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TCivan@reddit

2005 sequoia here. 150k on ODO with about 350k+ miles to go before that 2UZFE even thinks about giving out.

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SpicyChips69@reddit (OP)

Agreed. In my climate, rust destroyed then unfortunately

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Prairie-Peppers@reddit

Well that's going to be an issue with pretty much anything then isn't it? Unless you spray some kind of liner over everything.

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SpicyChips69@reddit (OP)

The goal would be to buy from a rust free climate and do everything I can to preserve it forever. Undercoating, ceramic coating, etc.

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kyuubixchidori@reddit

Same year. That’s why I buy 3rd gen 4Runners (I go for 97/98 models) from out west or down south and bring them to the Midwest.

I have a 98 with over 400k from Texas, a 97 from Colorado with 210k that’s my current daily driver and a 90 from California with 401k. Wouldn’t have it any other way.

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TheCamoTrooper@reddit

My grandpa has an old Ford ranger that is still rust free in NW Ontario because he rust checked it every single year from new (think its a second gen). Get it coated yearly and you'll be set, I find no brand rusts faster than another really

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Jjmills101@reddit

No brand has significantly higher quality steel for the most part, where they differ is in their coating and how good it is and how well it was applied. If you do the preventative stuff every year pretty much every car will be good

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nortonj3@reddit

much better examples of el camino's than rancheros. they just seemed to rust better.

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Zootour91@reddit

Who would coat the car ?

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TDNFunny@reddit

Burlington Coat Factory. They're moooooooore... Than great coats. 🤣

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ChartRound4661@reddit

Oil based undercoat. Woolwax or similar.

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TheCamoTrooper@reddit

Any local shop that does rust check he probably did it at turpins that's where our whole family always got work done when not doing it ourselves, speaking of you are able to buy the stuff to rust check coat the car yourself but for the $130 it costs I'd rather leave it to a shop

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jmsnys@reddit

Jeeps. Jeeps rust really really fast imo

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Beanmachine314@reddit

Toyota had a rash of recalls in that era to completely replace Tacoma frames because they weren't properly coated. Usually rust is an issue with the body, but frames don't fall apart or need replacing because of it.

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510519@reddit

I think part of the issue is they used fully boxed frames and water (and road salt) got trapped in the frame. Not sure if other trucks do fully boxed or C shaped.

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Beanmachine314@reddit

Plenty of other vehicles have fully boxed frames. It was because they didn't have enough corrosion preventative coating on the frame.

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510519@reddit

https://www.rustbuster.com/blogs/news/toyota-tacoma-frame-repair-the-nitty-gritty?srsltid=AfmBOop-Uf9eh9qogO5_uP-jIEs8s2CefFjOanwGOtyJqa7gjC0lB_ZN

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Beanmachine314@reddit

It was a combination of issues that all lead to the recall. Toyota won a settlement against Dana (who manufactured the frames) claiming they were inadequately coated.

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DubTeeF@reddit

You must not live in a salt area

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Beanmachine314@reddit

Most manufacturers haven't had to replace frames of thousands of vehicles because they could prematurely rust in two.

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shrekerecker97@reddit

Tundra/sequoia as well

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RobertNeyland@reddit

Well that's going to be an issue with pretty much anything then isn't it?

No. Even the econo shit boxes like Pontiac grand am and Chevy cavaliers had better rust preventing paint/finishes than those 35 year old Toyotas. Toyota put all their money into a overbuilt drivetrain and suspension. They skimped in other areas.

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thatsucksabagofdicks@reddit

Cheap to get a car shipped now!

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CheeseNipz666@reddit

And oil consumption

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One-Surround667@reddit

09 Yaris still holding up!

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Ceristimo@reddit

Sure, Toyota makes great cars, but even then not all of them. Our ‘07 Camry XV40 we had way back when was using oil like it was going out of style. A quart every 700 miles, and the 2.4 of that era is notorious for this. I’d avoid anything mid-2000’s with the Toyota 2AZ-FE engine.

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Disfunctional-U@reddit

They may burn oil the whole time they do it. But yeah. They keep going.

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Pretty_Leader3762@reddit

Had a 2012 Camry Hybrid. Daughter just recently wrecked it but had 260 k miles and the hybrid battery was still working. Boring but reliable

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EnvironmentalCap5798@reddit

Can confirm. Love my 2003 Corolla.

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Marksgotacabin@reddit

Came here to say this. Celica with 22R engine.

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HUSTLEDANK@reddit

Had one too with 22re. Is a beast. Prolly still running

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Nwrecked@reddit

Mine had 397k before the interior just became worn out and I uograded

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cat_of_danzig@reddit

I feel like there should be a better aftermarket for interiors.

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Badenguy@reddit

Had one until I wrapped it around a tree in an ice storm, it was just a mechanical marvel, so smooth.

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Deeznutzcustomz@reddit

Yeah, I’d take back my 09 Scion Xb manual. Great car, never should’ve traded it. Camry drivetrain for a bargain, body style has held up, tons of room, wagon capability with a fun ride. It’s the only vehicle I kinda miss from the last couple decades.

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qkdsm7@reddit

If the first generation xB were 2azfe powered I'd have a few. One with a 2gr/3gr swap would be... Spectacular.

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Deeznutzcustomz@reddit

Yeah, I really liked the body on the 1st gen, actually went to buy one but after a test drive it felt VERY underpowered. I was thinking with a couple more adults in the car, and some cargo in the back, it would be struggling. The 2nd gen weren’t quite as cool, but with a Camry motor and a stick shift they were fun and capable. And WELL under $20k, which seems like a fever dream in ‘24. It wasn’t UNcool, just not as toastery as the original.

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qkdsm7@reddit

...EXACTLY... where I am on xB1 vs xB2.....

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qkdsm7@reddit

...EXACTLY, all around, where I'm at on xB1 vs xB2. ...

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lfwylfwy@reddit

2008 RAV4, still drives without issues. Besides changing the battery at some point, nothing major was done to it.

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qkdsm7@reddit

Watching for the right RAV4 right now. FWD V6 preferred, usually sell fast when priced well....

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Signal-Confusion-976@reddit

I couldn't agree more. But a Honda of the same years would be a close second.

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Slickvisionair@reddit

This all day, I have a 2003 toyota land cruiser with 400k miles and I would buy another brand new from 2003 right now if I could.

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zoomzoom913@reddit

My LX has 285, hoping to make it to 500 before I die 😆

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TripstoWin@reddit

I’ve got a 2000 Land Cruiser with 278k. After I refreshed the suspension it drives likes it’s brand new.

It has only left me stranded one time when the alternator died.

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Forward_Body2103@reddit

I have the 2003 tundra and plan to keep it until it is smashed by a meteorite.

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Nwrecked@reddit

You could probably find another good specimen with low miles

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utsapat@reddit

Reading while sitting in my 1994 toyota camry

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Loca3091@reddit

I had a 2004 Echo that I had to say goodbye last fall. Went for a 2009 Corolla with 100k on the ODO. They run like a charm. Economic on the gas and insurance. Repairs are not expensive. Its just perfect.

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Lord_Metagross@reddit

I would buy a 1st gen V8 Toyota tundra brand new if I could.

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techauditor@reddit

Any Camry from 2000-2010 can make 300k miles its just crazy lol

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remxtc@reddit

I drive a 2006 Toyota Solara convertible, it's a poor man's dream car.

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beige_cardboard_box@reddit

If money and safety weren't a concern, I would build out a 200 series Land Cruiser.

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DubTeeF@reddit

What is unsafe about it

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Tight_Bid326@reddit

2001 corolla station wagon, 5-speed

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AdRckyosho9808@reddit

Anything with a 22 Re or a b1800 American anything with chevy 350

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151515157@reddit

Anything GMT800.

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qkdsm7@reddit

Flip a coin right now I'd pick between something Buick 3800series2/3 powered, and an ALH VW TDI. An 04 golf brand new today may last you 25 more years....the Buick 15-25. I'm still in a grandma hand-me-down 00 park avenue when the roads aren't crap....

Sons first car, 04 Camry, started in at 332k miles in 2019 and it's needed a starter and tires in that time....

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A1sauce100@reddit

3800 in the house! Great call.

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qkdsm7@reddit

Fuel noses back down closer to 1.80-2.10 and I'd be back to running \~1000 miles a week highway delivery route in them. :) Have most of the parts to manual swap one of the fwd ones as well, just need a better candidate to do it to or some more motivation.

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SpicyChips69@reddit (OP)

Thanks for the experienced comment!

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ruddy3499@reddit

My 2006 Chevy Silverado I’ve owned since 2007 less than 3k in repairs in 17 years

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Accurate-Group-4251@reddit

This is the way.

We purchased an 04 GMC Yukon Denali with just over 100k miles towards the end of 2019. It was my first V8 ever. I was questioning my sanity.

Now I question why I didn't buy one sooner! Very reliable and easy to wrench on yourself. Nice ride and the sears are like a Lazy Boy! Ridiculously comfortable

It now has about 215k miles and is still running great!

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Few-Context9068@reddit

Most of us in the rust belt wouldn’t know if they’re reliable because they rust out in 10 years. Road salts leave the body panels with the strength and aesthetic of wet cardboard.

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66LSGoat@reddit

Had to scroll through 3/4 of the comments just to see there GMT-800 get a mention. The most reliable engine with >300 HP and most modular platform on the road.

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bmx13@reddit

IMO gmt800 is the best platform America has ever produced. I'm a GMT 400 boi for the looks but the absolute hideous amount of shit I've watched 800's take and just keep going is unparalleled. Only a few Honda's and Toyota's beat them in reliability and they don't give you anywhere near the payload or towing capacity.

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IsPooping@reddit

Kept looking for GMT800 too! I'm still driving my 2004 Denali I got with 60k miles when I turned 16

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benzguy95@reddit

My dads ‘04 has around 270k miles on it and he has 0 plans to sell it

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Accurate-Group-4251@reddit

I'm seriously considering purchasing a Ford Crown Victoria or Mercury Grand Marquis before those become absurdly expensive.

I wish I could go back in time and buy a new Toyota 4×4 (before they were called Tacoma), put it in a barn with a tarp over it, and open that barn door tomorrow.

GMT 800 vehicles are reliable and easy to work on. Would be nice having a new one of those today. Same with most of the GM 3800 V6 cars.

Last generation Pontiac Trans-Am?

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Mediocre_Internal_89@reddit

My ‘08 Lexus GX470.

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Responsible-Shoe7258@reddit

Crown Vic, Grand Marquis de Sade, Lincoln Town car. Basically any panther platform Ford in excellent condition. Have 2 CV's currently

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swiftie-42069@reddit

Gen 3 4Runner. I wish I still had my 2002

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AnyAbbreviations8847@reddit

2007 gmc envoy with a 4.2L I6

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sprockets22@reddit

Ls400 has been a true fucking tank to me. Cruised at 90 mph and you wouldn’t know it. 300k miles until the motor randomly started shutting on off on me

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nabob@reddit

2005 to 2008 Corolla.....indestructible is maintained normally and so easy to work on.

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desEINer@reddit

I would say, I love reliability and I probably won't buy newer than a 2015 ever, but for me driving a 2011 as the most recent model year I've ever owned (I know, but I only buy used and I like to work on them) I didn't realize how quiet certain cars could be. Used cars are fine but the older and more reliable they are, usually the louder and rattly they are in my experience. I drive a honda odyssey and a 06 sonata right now. I thought the sonata was quiet because I came from a truck and a 99 camry, but wow the odyssey is quiet and just take some of the nicer Ubers and you realize just how serene a car can be. I know it's not the only factor, but that's something you'll just never get in an older reliable car, unfortunately.

My 99 Camry was bulletproof though in terms of reliability.

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Neuvirths_Glove@reddit

1970s Dodge Dart with a slant six.

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Jewbacca522@reddit

I know from first hand experience that engine will run with used (filtered) cooking oil in the sump rather than 30W…

We literally TRIED to blow it up, and it just. Kept. Going.

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Dangerous-View2524@reddit

I had a few darts,and aspens at the time,it was called the leaning tower of power🤣😂

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Individual-Cut4932@reddit

Nearly 400,000 miles on my 2014 Honda Accord Sport so far and I’m still super happy with it, I’d buy another

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EnvironmentalAd8871@reddit

2007 Toyota Matrix

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TheUnknown7886@reddit

Jeep Cherokee XJ

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jeep242@reddit

The 4.0 and AW4 (easily the best Jeep tranny during the TJ, XJ, and ZJ era) are very reliable.

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TheUnknown7886@reddit

Yes! I have a '98 XJ though it has the AX15 (also a fantastic transmission!)

Though the AW4 was only used in the XJ/MJ and very briefly for a year or two in the ZJ. The TJ never offered the AW4.

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Dangerous-View2524@reddit

My 94 zj has 306,000 + and still counting!

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co678@reddit

LS430. Thread closed.

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thatoneguynoah88@reddit

Nissan titan! 345k miles hauling loads every day with no issues and less than ideal maintenace haha

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elmwoodblues@reddit

1988 Toyota pickup

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averagemaleuser86@reddit

I had a 1988 chrysler k car (dodge aries) with 80k original miles like 2 years ago. I'm still kicking melsef kn the teeth for selling it

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Simple-Department-28@reddit

Hmmm… It’s difficult to say, as every vehicle I’ve owned until now has been old, high mileage, and needed repairs; so what fits the bill in my opinion is something that’s easy to fix and parts are pretty common. Two of the best ones I’ve owned include 1996-1999 Yukons and Tahoes (Suburbans too!) They’re so easy to work on, (mostly), and parts were surprisingly cheap and available (mostly).

But tops in my books were the 1987-2001 Jeep Cherokee XJ’s. They just tick all the boxes for me. They’re pretty easy to work on, simple enough and when something did happen I could usually fix it pretty quickly, or find a way to work around the problem.

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Cast_Iron_Pancakes@reddit

More than 30 years old, but if I could get a mint 300D Mercedes I’d be set.

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MadBrewer67@reddit

1963 AMC American Rambler flat head 6 cylinder

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-Rustling-Jimmies-@reddit

I drove a 2007 Pontiac G6 that I paid two grand for off craigslist and drove it for 112,000 miles before selling it for $2000. Give me another Pontiac.

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PontiacMotorCompany@reddit

Misc?

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hourGUESS@reddit

Supercharged Grand Prix GTP. Great engine with a little more thump than the traditional 3800.

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PontiacMotorCompany@reddit

My first car

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KingWolfsburg@reddit

Any Pontiac or Buick with a supercharged 3800

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GeoHog713@reddit

Nothing is more reliable than a 1981 Toyota CorollaTercel

They're indestructible.

But I don't want to drive one.

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XLRick1969@reddit

Indestructible maybe;death trap absolutely.

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GeoHog713@reddit

We tried our hardest to kill one, as teenagers in the 90s.

It can't be done

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OM617@reddit

My 40 year old 300d doesn't meet the criteria...

So my 98 V70 (606k) and 15 S80 T6 (158k). I also paid almost nothing for both and put a lot into them as they were badly neglected when I got them. My S80 was a total loss but I chose to save it because the interior was mint and it has the best seats I've ever sat in... Both are also highly modified to the point where I can still scare myself getting onto the highway.

Of course this is my personal preference and I tell all my customers to buy Honda or Toyota. Newer Mazdas aren't bad either.

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BradtotheBones@reddit

Lexus SC 300

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Fat-Frumos108@reddit

Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla. They run forever

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bluecollar-gent2@reddit

Any Scion / Toyota with the 1NZ-FE 4-banger

1.5 gang

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mrwoolery@reddit

Lexus LS-400

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bidextralhammer@reddit

Our 2007 Prius has 520k miles. Our 2017 Pruus Prime has 354k miles. I just a Lexus ES300h and a hoping for similar longevity (camry/Avalon based).

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popeyegui@reddit

Toyota Corolla. Probably 25% of them are still running.

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roadfood@reddit

If you can find one, the Pontiac Vibe is pretty much a Corolla/Matrix without the Toyota tax. Bonus if you can find a GT version.

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popeyegui@reddit

They look the same, but most mechanics will agree with me that they don’t have the same quality as the pure-bred Toyotas.

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roadfood@reddit

All the engines, running gear and components came out of the Toyota parts bins. Built on a line supervised and QC'd by Toyota. Your mechanic friends sound ill informed.

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ConsistentExtent4568@reddit

2001 Honda accord with 300k on it my personal experience

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bknight63@reddit

Toyota Yaris, don’t remember the model year, but it was the first year they sold them in the US. I rented one in Coata Rica in 2005 and told my wife then that if they ever sold them at home, I was going to buy one. Four doors for easy loading, four cylinder, four speed manual transmission, manual windows and the only reason it had an air conditioner was that the dealer told me they would have to special order one without one. I wanted as few things to break as possible. If I drove it hard it would get 38 miles to the gallon, baby it and it would do 42. Most of the time I got a smooth 40. My son totaled it in an accident or I’d still be driving it.

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Wherever-At@reddit

Don’t buy the early Honda 600, they literally rusted away in a year.

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Wherever-At@reddit

I’m thinking after I get my 1954 Ford Customline running and repaired after sitting 25+ years it should be good to go.

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bradjo123@reddit

My current work vehicle is a 2007 Toyota Tacoma. Gone through some brakes, tires & serpentine belts other than that, it just runs good.

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peachedelic@reddit

I had an m50 e34 touring…literal bulletproof of a car. I sold it to a Ukrainian kid who now loves the hell out of it in the east coast.

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baconator30001@reddit

Ford Panther platform

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XLRick1969@reddit

Nothing beat a Ford Panther platform

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Pup111290@reddit

Where I live is rough on vehicles, but the oldest vehicles I see pretty regularly are GMT400 trucks/SUVs, Crown Vic, and Buick LeSabres, Centurys, and Regals

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XLRick1969@reddit

The Crown Vic is just a phenomenally reliable car. I would put it up against ANY vehicle in this thread.

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Styx_Renegade@reddit

9th Gen Corolla. Aside from that rust issue at the rocker panels, it’s a super solid car

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XLRick1969@reddit

A 1987 Grand Marquis with the 5.0L V8. 314,000 easy miles and could have effortlessly went another 100k. Just got bored driving it. Just two water pumps were the only non-maintenance repairs.

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King_in_a_castle_84@reddit

My 5.0 Coyote aluminum F-150.

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Unlikely-Act-7950@reddit

Second gen Dodge with a 12valve Cummins

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RackingUpTheMiles@reddit

Crown Vics. It's literally a 70s car with 90s tech and they made tons of them.

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The_Summary_Man_713@reddit

Well the 4.0 L 1GR-FE V6 engine on the current 4Runner, and most of the prior Toyotas, is arguably one of the best engines ever made. Ever. And that is why I paid top dollar for my 2023 4Runner and I’m going to keep it for 20 years

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godlords@reddit

Pretty insane to have an engine still competitive 20 years after it's birth.

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The_Summary_Man_713@reddit

Competitive in terms of reliability, yes. But as far as everything else like fuel efficiency and modernness not so much. But I don’t know. I got the truck for the reliability not for luxury.

If I wanted both top notch reliability with top notch luxury I’d just buy the Lexus sister lol

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EldesamparaDOH@reddit

Didn’t they switch to 4 cylinder turbo’s?

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The_Summary_Man_713@reddit

They did and they are. The 2025 4Runner is about to get it and the Tacoma and tundra already have it

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No-Cantaloupe5773@reddit

any 90-2000 Honda or Toyota.

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Positive-Sundae-9307@reddit

Drove my 98 Camry until 2018. Best car I ever had. I would buy another if I could.

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Spiritual_Tax_3883@reddit

2010 Toyota Avalon. 6 cylinders 265 hp Drives like new. 115,000 mi

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NYEDMD@reddit

Like the old joke about real estate (location, location, location). 1. Lexus 2. Lexus 3. Lexus

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godlords@reddit

Who told you that is a joke

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everyday_is_enysedae@reddit

So you like Toyotas. They are good cars though.

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healthydeadguy@reddit

Late 80s-93 v8 mustangs with manual transmissions. they are just stupid reliable if you do way below the bare minimum maintenance

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justsomeguynik@reddit

I've got a 2010 Toyota Highlander with over 200Kms and all I've done was an oil change.

I could drive this car across the country today and not be concerned one bit.

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No_Difference8518@reddit

My '98 Ford ranger. I really wish I hadn't got rid of it. In the 17 years I owned it, other than regular maintenance, I replaced one EKG sensor, and an alternator.

I have never understood the hate for NA cars/trucks. My parents only buy Toyota... and they have more repairs than I do, and much more expensive. But they buy them because they are reliable?

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Minute-Hopeful@reddit

Early Chevy duramax's have my vote on diesels 100% on gassers id say early Silverados with the 5.3l ls1

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Potential-Anything54@reddit

My 2007 Acura TL. Had it 10 years. Basic maintenance.

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ren0vat0r@reddit

Any Honda Civic or Acura Integra from 1988-2000 ever.

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admiralspy69@reddit

9th gen civic

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CarelessCoconut5307@reddit

I have a 1994 Lexus Ls400, just rolled over 300k and its my daily. Ive put a good chunk of change into it, it is a project car for me. But I paid 1200 bucks for it and its been about as reliable as any car Ive had with half the miles

the 1uz is a pretty notoriously reliable engine and I love this car. It was a very nice car when it was new too..

so Im pretty happy with this and I definitely wont be getting a new car to replace it. But Im not going to pretend its perfect. theyre heavy, old and usually high mileage, suspension issues are common, if the starter motor goes its a nightmare, ECUs go bad alot gas mileage is rough too

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MythoclastMotorcycle@reddit

I had a 95 taco with well over 200,000 miles and only did the oil (religiously). It was taken away by toyota because the frame resembled a cheep paper plate. I miss that truck so much.

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whiskeytangocharlee@reddit

2003-2007 Toyota Avalon.

I work at a dealer that formerly had an "oil changes for life" program, meaning if you bought your car from our dealer the dealership will pay for the oil change whenever it comes to the selling dealer for service.

A little old lady bought in an 2004 Avalon with I wanna say around 350k miles, the check engine light was on

Small oil leak on the upper portion of the motor, I don't remember the exact part

It was about $330 to fix the car, which the customer approved.

I went through her national service history and realized it was literally the first money she had EVER spent on the car

She hadn't replaced any fluids other than the oil (you should though), never changed a valve, apparently never had spark plugs replaced, I mean not one maintenance other than oil change was done to the car.

Toyota knows they built cars TOO good in that era

[-]

Medical-Low5@reddit

I’d rebuy my 2012 Toyota RAV4. Currently has over 300,000 miles. Only bought tires, brakes, batteries and have been very good at getting regular oil changes 👍

[-]

Used-BandiCoochie@reddit

2009 V6 Accord built on Wednesday.

[-]

Pronouns_It_WTF@reddit

2007 corolla.

[-]

TheLazyPedaler@reddit

A lot of good answers in here.

I haven’t seen it mentioned so I’ll say a 2005-2006 Tundra Limited crew cab with the legendary 4.7. Super comfortable, nice features and IMO it’s the perfect size truck unless you need a 3/4 or 1 ton.

[-]

OldEnvironment9@reddit

I have a 2006 Scion xB that two teenage boys learned to drive stick on and is now my daily that just WILL NOT QUIT. Uglier than sin with all plastic bits hanging on by zip ties but it always starts and has never let me down. Oh, and I can fill the tank for under $30. I’ll drive it until it rusts out.

[-]

QueasyHuckleberry566@reddit

I loved mine. It was like driving a go cart!

[-]

Dear_Efficiency_3616@reddit

my customers 4runner. 423k miles. still original engine. just 1 head gasket replacement ever

[-]

Puzzled-Ad-8187@reddit

MK1 Ford Focus 1.8 Zetec bought it 3 months old in 1999 and kept it for 10 years and never needed to replace anything that wasn't wear and tear. And a number plate check tells me its still on the road today.

[-]

LunaTheSnek@reddit

Tacoma

[-]

PlanetExcellent@reddit

Mid 90s Camry

[-]

Hydraulis@reddit

I had a 2008 Honda Civic. I would buy ten of them today if I could.

[-]

BowserIsBetter@reddit

Any Avalon

[-]

SliC3dTuRd@reddit

2006 MDX. Never had an issue. Parted ways at 225k.

[-]

Johnnytestikal@reddit

A mint grandma owned 97-02 Camry xle. I'd pay $20k for one than the new ones

[-]

anauditorDFW@reddit

Tesla Model S. Small scale assembly and near 0 maintenance. There are many out there with over 500k. Miles.

[-]

grumpyolddude@reddit

G35/G37 Sedan 6MT. 2007+ I traded mine in on a M3 Competition and If I had to do it again I'm not sure if I'd choose to buy the M3 again. It would be close. And I really loved the M3.

[-]

Idunkedonlebron23@reddit

What year M3?

[-]

grumpyolddude@reddit

(E92 6MT)

[-]

sandman404knows@reddit

The G37s auto was hot garbage. The transmission was in no way rated for the torque. The engine was great and most of the other aspects of the model as well.

[-]

SillyFunnyWeirdo@reddit

Toyota Camry or Corolla

[-]

Healthy-Mode-7082@reddit

Panther body ford products

[-]

yallknowme19@reddit

Came here for this.

[-]

nortonj3@reddit

I had a 1996 Mercedes 300D non turbo. it was amazing, it was in the Mercedes high mileage club.

[-]

mnrooo@reddit

2008 Honda civic. Bought new still my daily. 17 years and counting.

[-]

Idunkedonlebron23@reddit

Same. How many miles on it now?

[-]

locodfw@reddit

Still driving my 02 Lexus is300. Regular maintenance. 245k miles.

[-]

hshadow0517@reddit

Honda civic, those things will last forever.

[-]

SpicyChips69@reddit (OP)

What year? Engine?

[-]

Vanilla_PuddinFudge@reddit

9th gen. Si.

K24 is the best Honda motor ever made, paired with the best manual gearbox ever made... on a platform that is bulletproof.

"I can't drive a manual and it's too small!"

I got you, fam. The 9th gen Accord uses the K24 as well.

[-]

Front_Preference_599@reddit

Can attest my K24 is an amazing, fun little daily driver. I always hear “are you gonna mod this thing?!” Nope. Gonna take care of it, keep it reliable.

[-]

rpartlan@reddit

Agree, except for the 9th gen auto is a cvt. I think better off with a 8th gen accord, or tsx.

[-]

Vanilla_PuddinFudge@reddit

The 9th Gen auto was optionally a CVT. I owned a 9th Gen Accord with a normal automatic.

[-]

Ayyy-yo@reddit

For what it’s worth my 9th gen cvt was sold with well over 300ks. Still running perfectly. I changed the cvt fluid religiously though

[-]

TheCamoTrooper@reddit

The 7th and 8th gen accords also have a K24 along with the TSX

[-]

SpicyChips69@reddit (OP)

lol good answer!

[-]

Brokeboi1523@reddit

90’s civic. The D series lacking power, but dependable as fuck for a daily commuter.

[-]

Jarse-@reddit

I had a ‘99 with the single cam d16y7, purposefully didn’t change the oil & it lasted over 10k miles without a change before it detonated on me.

Reason for purposefully blowing it was because I had a b20b ready to swap in.

[-]

bygoneOne@reddit

Wut.

[-]

zrad603@reddit

not the new ones lol

[-]

SpicyChips69@reddit (OP)

I agree lol.

[-]

TheOtherWalter@reddit

My 1997 sixth gen Civic ran with basic maintenance until last year - 200k miles in 27 years. It died when a radiator hose split and my son kept driving and warped the head. At the cost it didn’t seem worth repairing. :-(

[-]

Poozipper@reddit

My 22 year old Honda Civic SI just needs oil changes. 270k miles. Looks like shit, drives like new.

[-]

hookydoo@reddit

Ok BUT I had a 7th gen civic lx with a 1.6L and that thing gobbled up head gaskets. Its gone through 3 now i think, and after the 1st one we swapped the motor, then went through another 2 gaskets on the second motor (over a period of 6-8 years ish).

It still ran pretty good with a bad head gasket though, so theres something to be said for that.

[-]

ekeicudidndjsidh@reddit

Mercedes W202 or Jag X300 (in the latter case, assuming I could afford the petrol).

[-]

DEngSc_Fekaly@reddit

Almost any car from the 1990-2005 period

[-]

ARLibertarian@reddit

My 2000-2004 4x4 Nissan Pathfinder has no equal.

[-]

TheMagicOfFriendship@reddit

My 04 Pathfinder was an absolute tank. Its obviously anecdotal, but it was way more reliable than my 4runner or GX was and like a quarter of the initial cost

[-]

EldesamparaDOH@reddit

I see a lot of people trash Nissan but they have some gems, Xterra’s and Titan's can be bulletproof too

[-]

SomebodySuckMeee@reddit

I wish that was the case for me. 2000 Pathy with low kms and i put more money into that thing in a year and a half than any other vehicle I owned.

[-]

benzguy95@reddit

My old neighbor bought an ‘01, new and kept it til 290k miles, he would’ve kept it longer if the ECM hadn’t fried itself

[-]

Trailblazin15@reddit

Ugh I miss my 97 pathfinder everyday. That thing was a trooper. I didn’t know how good I had it until I size down to a sedan

[-]

olediver2@reddit

I bought my DIL one and within a couple of years the engine crapped out because of sludge in the top end. Many Pathfinders seem to have the same problem and Nissan will do nothing to help other than sell you a new engine for over $13,000.00.

[-]

apudapus@reddit

My sister’s ‘99 Camry. We still have it in the extended family and I did maintenance on it for a little in the ‘00s but it’s been quite neglected yet still running. It’s got no power but if you need a car to get you from A to B no matter the miles, that’s the one.

If I wanted something more fun, it’d probably be an ‘99 Integra Type R.

[-]

Altruistic_Device904@reddit

I have a 97 Camry and the thing is a tank. Straight up.

[-]

EldesamparaDOH@reddit

https://theonion.com/toyota-recalls-1993-camry-due-to-fact-that-owners-reall-1819577805/

[-]

SpecOps4538@reddit

1973 Dodge Challenger 340 Four Barrel. By far the most reliable, easiest to maintain vehicle and most fun to drive.

I've had other high performance vehicles. I currently have Jaguars and Porsches. I'd still rather have my Challenger back!

[-]

Routine-Wind-4134@reddit

2007-2008 Acura TSX 6mt.

[-]

tysonfromcanada@reddit

none really. My 2012 chev pickup was reliable for the 320,000kms I drove it. Everything worked when I sold it. Great car.

It was miles ahead of my 2000 pickup, which was night and day from my '89 dodge.

It's still no where near the vehicle my new pickup is in terms of fuel economy, drivability, power etc. I think this will be the best one I've ever had, just like the others were. Cars really have gotten pretty good.

[-]

cat_of_danzig@reddit

I used to know a Jaguar mechanic, and when a dude we knew bought an Aston Martin DB5 he said "The shittiest new car today still drives better than that ever did." I'm not sure he was 100% spot on, but there's a point to be made there.

[-]

SpicyChips69@reddit (OP)

As a mechanic at a used car dealer, I agree with everything you’ve said, but from my experience every modern car is a wolf in sheep’s clothing.

[-]

kinghorsehead@reddit

Not the first year or the last year, but basically 04-09 town cars. Sure, all the crown Vic's and Grand Marquis are functionally the same car, I just have nostalgia for my TC

[-]

STLrep@reddit

Panther platform fords

[-]

waribou@reddit

I got a used 2009 Toyota Camry I. 2011 and drove it til I traded it in in 2019 with zero problems, just oil changes and brake pads

[-]

Mr65GTO@reddit

Toyota Camry 2008 to 2017! We owned two of them, never gave us a problem!

[-]

The_Conadian@reddit

3rd gen Mazda 3's are becoming one of the best used car options as of lately. By experience everyone who is decent with maintenance is going to tell you their particular model is the best because owners who maintain their cars have far better reliability regardless of their particular vehicle.

[-]

Ambitious-Ocelot8036@reddit

I'm pretty sure my OG '78 Honda Civic is still alive somewhere as is the '82 Toyo Tercel and the '05 Camry. That being said, I'll keep my '11 Jetta Sportwagen (2.5L) until gas is illegal.

[-]

Expensive-You-655@reddit

95 Tacoma 4cyl auto

[-]

omegamun@reddit

I had a 1990 Audi 90 Quattro that just would not die. It was such an odd engine, too. Five cylinder, 20V, which looked kinda lopsided in its engine bay. Nothing ever wore out on it, even the thick plastic buttons in the interior. Damned car is probably stalking me even now as I type this.

[-]

xxxmgg@reddit

Fiat Uno 1 liter & Suzuky Samurai. Honda (bike) Dominator. Thanks god I have my '84 Vespa

[-]

Emotional-Concept-32@reddit

My 2003 duramax seems to be putting in the work. I'd drive that truck anywhere.

[-]

Intelligent-Guide696@reddit

Had a 2007 Chevrolet Monte Carlo v-6 with 284,xxx on it when we got rid of it still had the original transmission. 1 water pump and basic services

1994 dodge dakota v-6 currently 217,000 basic services

2003 dodge dakota v-6 22x,xxx miles currently basic services and has hauled 2 commercial zero turns on a trailer 90% of those miles

2014 chrysler town and country 191,xxx currently with just basic services

2008 Nissan Sentra with 228,xxx currently nothing major

2010 Chevrolet Tahoe 235,xxx when traded and never any major issues

I could go on and on, the main thing is keep them serviced and treat them right and they will treat you right for the most part.

[-]

Mitka69@reddit

96-2000 Honda Civic with manual transmisstsion. It was likely no more reliable than, say, Corolla, but it just didn't look as bland.

Particularly DX trim, the lowest trim that did not even have power windows and no tach. on the dash.

These cars could easily reach 250K miles with only basic maintenance. If you did not drive them like a maniac they could reach 350K.

I know from personal experience.

When shopping for cars I have seen Camries with whipping 400K miles tho. So Toyota Camry is another super reliable vehicle, but I never owned one.

[-]

Mas_Cervezas@reddit

1980s Mazda 626. I had one with rust holes filled with gap and crack expanding foam thousands of miles across the country. I paid $150 for it.

[-]

HueyWasRight1@reddit

Ford Crown Vic. I'm thinking about buying one to restore.

[-]

MattsFlight@reddit

I will most likely get told otherwise from others but my Mk6 VW GTI is bulletproof, maintained and kept perfectly. I love driving it.

[-]

DaRiddler70@reddit

GMT-800 Tahoe.

[-]

jpttpj@reddit

The one I have now, 99 4Runner A real close second is a 90 Isuzu amigo. 326k miles, worse thing I did was let it sit for 6 mos.

[-]

PlsHalp420@reddit

C5 corvette. It's not only super reliable, it's super fun, too!

[-]

Background_Army5103@reddit

F150 with a 4.6

[-]

demdareting@reddit

1991 Integra, 2009 Civic. Both cars have lasted +15 years. The Integra because I took my young family everywhere in that car. The 09 Si because aside from an AC compressor it has been just routine maintenance. I love my Honda.

[-]

imbrickedup_@reddit

90s to early 2000s Toyota or LS.

[-]

ConstantMango672@reddit

80's to 04 toyota 4x4

[-]

SpicyChips69@reddit (OP)

Unkillable

[-]

ConstantMango672@reddit

Kinda applies to any toyota/lexus of that era to be honest

[-]

supern8ural@reddit

Maybe not most reliable but most practical is the XJ "box" Cherokee. I'm on my third, it has the 4.0, NP242 (AWD) transfer case, AW4. I miss my last one, it was the same but had upcountry suspension and LSD.

I do drive it most days as in Baltimore it's way more practical than any car. Sturdy enough not to fall apart on these roads but short enough to easily park.

[-]

SkylineFTW97@reddit

Probably my Honda Fit. She's a 2015 LX 6 speed, the best spec for a 3rd gen. Keyed ignition, mechanical HVAC controls and trunk release, no integrated infotainment, no sunroof to leak (very common problem on them), and has the least CANBUS stuff in it. Mine just hit 10 years from her date of original purchase a few months ago (I'm the 2nd owner) and will be paid off in less than 6 months. I'm aiming to keep her running as long as possible.

[-]

SpicyChips69@reddit (OP)

This is the type of comment I’m looking for!

[-]

AdRepresentative8236@reddit

It's pretty good on fuel and has a lot of interior space, interior is kind of cheap though. AC and heating is not great, but it is a very affordable, reliable car

[-]

SkylineFTW97@reddit

I do have another car, or rather a truck, that's almost 30 that I also drive a fair bit, my 1996 Honda Passport 4x4 LX 5 speed. Granted I've only had her for about 1 year and she was and still is a work in progress. Had a dead miss on cylinder 1 due to a stuck fuel injector, had multiple EVAP leaks I had to chase (I replaced the purge valve, fuel filter hoses, and various vacuum lines in the engine bay before I finally got rid of all the EVAP codes), I just put 4 new tires on her a few days ago, I changed the driveline fluids and cleaned all the breather caps for the diffs and transfer case to stop any leaks, I replaced the steering center link and tie rods, and I'm about to do all the ball joints.

I also have a new front washer fluid pump on order to replace the burnt out one, new quarter glass cause I broke one of them hauling scrap engines, I need to de-gunk the piston rings with one of those dynamic engine flushes (those do actually help. Not a 100% fix, but it can significantly cut down on oil burning under some circumstances. And mine burns a lot of oil), I need to order new sunroof seals, and the starter is dying and in a spot that's horrible to access. Easiest way to get it is to drop the oil pan, which I want to do anyway because the gasket leaks. Also the lifters make lots of noise and I will replace those when I do the timing belt.

It's a lot of work, but still better than any new truck IMO. The new ones are too big, too fancy, too expensive, and the only ones available with manual transmissions in the US are the Jeep Wrangler, Ford Bronco, and Toyota Tacoma, none of which I like.

[-]

benzguy95@reddit

I loved the Fit’s more than I thought I would, wish Honda would’ve kept selling them here

[-]

Daedalus_304@reddit

Fits are awesome, my partner has a first gen with the cvt and even that is relatively reliable

[-]

migorengbaby@reddit

I have. 2008 and I love it. Absolutely no desire to upgrade to anything newer.

[-]

SkylineFTW97@reddit

Just make sure yours isn't rusty. The first gens are the most prone to getting undercarriage rot.

[-]

migorengbaby@reddit

Second gen.

And nah, I’m in Australia, rust isn’t really a thing here 😅

[-]

SkylineFTW97@reddit

2008 is the last year of the 1st gen here in the US.

[-]

migorengbaby@reddit

Yeah, all the American websites list the GE as 09 onwards but in the rest of the world 2008 is the first year of the GE.

Even the flares on the fit/jazz subreddit have it as 09-14 or something.

[-]

SkylineFTW97@reddit

Yup, already a member there.

[-]

AdRepresentative8236@reddit

1996 Toyota Camry

[-]

Most_Researcher_9675@reddit

An LS430 in good shape and has reasonable mileage. Amazing vehicles...

[-]

Drdoom_33@reddit

Diesel jettas

Toyota tacomas

I've seen many people fail TRYING to kill these

[-]

G0mery@reddit

Even older I’d say Mercedes diesel W123s. Virtually indestructible. I’d buy a nice one today even if it had 250k miles if it were reasonably priced. My 1980 240D was the most reliable car I ever had. 4 years of daily driving and long trips and all it needed was oil changes.

[-]

Vegetable-Cherry-853@reddit

I am actually looking for one as my daily driver. Considering a W116 as well. I have a BMW now with the exploding timing chain and hate what BMW has done to cheapen their engines. Plastic everywhere it shouldn't be

[-]

zombietrooper@reddit

One of my first cars was a perennial hand me down 1989 VW Jetta Wolfsburg Edition. Her name was “Fräulein”. This was around 2002. Absolutely clapped out. Windows wouldn’t roll all the way up, so she always stank and had a half inch puddle of water on the floorboard. Every time you took it somewhere you’d have to pop the hood and wiggle the alternator wires. Half of the braking system had transmission fluid in it instead of brake fluid(don’t ask). One time one of the radiator hoses basically exploded and I drove around for a week without coolant and the temp gauge pegged at red. Fräulein never missed a fucking beat. Drove around like that for over a year. Eventually gave her to a random homeless person who needed a ride.

[-]

idownvoteanimalpics@reddit

I've got a 99 Jetta mk4 TDI decomposing in my garage....I just might pull it off

[-]

BeaverMartin@reddit

These are going to be the new “muscle cars” meaning they are cheap now but clean, unmodified, rust free examples will be worth tons as people look for reliable, repairable, simple vehicles in the future: XJ Cherokees, ‘90s 4Runners, ‘90s Accords, 5.9 Cummins powered Rams, 3.8 powered Buicks, Buick Roadmaster Estates, Ford Panther Platform cars, 300 six powered F150s.

[-]

Badenguy@reddit

Definitely my 2005 4Runner, having some trouble now, but honestly, I never did a repair that wasn’t just maintenance, except maybe the fuel pump because the gas gauge stopped working, and other than an alignment, or tires no mechanic has ever needed to touch it. Lost 5th gear recently so need a new transmission, brother says “damn dude 20 years with no repairs and your complaining?”. Bro is hard core union so it’s all American or nothing for him, and it’s been an engine or a trans in everything he’s bought in that time frame.

[-]

ArchieAsp@reddit

If it had todays safety levels, i'd have my old 1992 Accord EXR (but with a manual). Was great to drove and ultra reliable

[-]

That_Trapper_guy@reddit

05-15 Nissan frontier/Xterra/Titan/Pathfinder. Keep the oil changed in them they'll run forever with minimal needs.

[-]

Training_Try_9433@reddit

I know their not the best but don’t knock a Ford, drove loads of them as taxis for over 20 years, my Ford focus done 121k before it broke down, changed the egr and it kept going for another 80k before the clutch failed, problem now is the Old Ford chain driven tdci engines have gone and been replaced mostly with pug engines

[-]

Superb_Astronomer_59@reddit

The Ford Pinto. Guaranteed to warm your soul.

[-]

hoosierspiritof79@reddit

2001 Acura Integra.

[-]

Upstairs-Bit-9448@reddit

2000 Lexus es300 platinum, such a good car.

[-]

MrTripperSnipper@reddit

Volvo 940 turbo.

[-]

ObviousDifference692@reddit

2002 Honda Accord coupe V6

[-]

Warm_Caterpillar_287@reddit

06-14 Suzuki SX4 4x4. Small, practical and capable. It just won't break. Built to last and comfortable too

[-]

False_Ad_555@reddit

Any Honda Accord built between 1981 and 2023. They had some transmission issues in the early 2000's and the first gen 1976-1980 had some weird design issues, but overall reliable, economical comfortable pleasant to drive and easy to modify. I've owned 4 and I picked out one as my daughter's first car

[-]

Ok_Plant_1196@reddit

99 Honda civic. Toyota Hilux

[-]

T2VW@reddit

1985 VW DoubleCab. Look it up if you’ve never heard of it. I loved that vehicle, and so did my kids. (Yes, I’m that old)

[-]

Oreotech@reddit

I think reliability is only one factor in what car I would keep for years. For me, fuel efficiency, ease of repairs, availability and cost of parts are more important.

There's not much after the 1993 Dodge 5,9l Cummins that interests me other than a 98 diesel Jetta. First year of the TDI, before they over complicated it in 99.

[-]

Scrotto_Baggins@reddit

Lexus ES with 3.5L v6

[-]

SomebodySuckMeee@reddit

My 08 Camry Hybrid was the most worry free car I ever owned. Sold it with 327k and still ran strong with no issues. Never saw the CEL come on.

[-]

Admiral_peck@reddit

Miata

[-]

Traditional-Wait-257@reddit

84-89 Toyota van. There is nothing finer actually that’s just what I drive. I have three of them. I’ve been driving them for the last 20 years a perfect combination of hauling capacity and fuel efficiency and they’ll go 400,000 miles without breaking a sweat.

[-]

B4DR1998@reddit

1996 VW Polo 1.4 petrol engine. Had it as a daily for a while, never ever let me down in the slightest. The only time I had to pop the hood was to jump start other cars. I didn’t even check it thoroughly when I bought it. It just kept going no questions asked.

[-]

SharpLatina69skidoo@reddit

2012 Honda Fit base - only issued is the paint at this point. 186,359 miles! Going strong. Love not having a car payment. Plan to keep her until the motor mount gives out lol

[-]

adrenaline_donkey@reddit

Late to the party but both first and secind gen Kia Forte (Korea made - NOT US), i would re-buy it. Perhaps one of the most reliable car in the past decade in my country.

[-]

lol_camis@reddit

My wife has a 2007 Yaris with 184k that were pretty sure has never had a repair. We're obviously certain that it's never had a repair since her ownership in 2014. And the guy we bought it from also said he never needed to fix anything, although we're taking his word on it. Still though, not surprising at all to think it had never asked for money when she bought it around 80k

[-]

AdditionalStuff2155@reddit

I didn't own one but had multiple friends and colleagues with Lexus RX350s. With regular maintenance, those things were bulletproof. Best of both worlds in luxury and reliability.

[-]

adrenaline_donkey@reddit

Yeah - those ones will just keep on going and going

[-]

Savings_State6635@reddit

Toyota 4runner

[-]

flaming0-1@reddit

I scrolled too far to find this. I’d take a 1989 manual 22re loaded in red thank you!

[-]

TexMoto666@reddit

There's a reason I still have my 99 4Runner. It's been the most reliable vehicle I've ever owned, by a long shot.

[-]

PunchyCat2004@reddit

2000 Chevy Suburban 1500

[-]

Seaofphoques@reddit

2009 v6 rav4, I’d love to get a minty one and outfit it for light off-road trails

[-]

HarveyMushman72@reddit

A $500 Dodge Colt hatch More rust than metal put a stater and changed the oil, delivered 1000s of pizzas in it. It would not die.

[-]

dj_ordje@reddit

2003 Passat 3BG 1.9TDI 131PS 6-Speed Manual

Got it with 400k on the clock, and the only major repairs were a broken flexpipe in the exhaust, a MAP sensor, and the turbo was pouring oil. All original parts...

Still started up after half a turn and drove like a hot damn!

1.9TDIs with unit injectors in General are near indestructible. Many consider it the last good engine that VAG made.

[-]

RabidAcorn@reddit

VW GTD, a lot of people mentioned the emissions scandal but that really doesn't phase me, they'll run to well over 400k.

[-]

thranetrain@reddit

01-05 silverado/sierra Basically and Tacoma, camry, corolla or rav4 pre ~2015 Buick lasabre Crown vic Honda civic

Can easily get any of these vehicles to 300k+

There's really no reason I'd ever even consider a new car to be honest

[-]

alexseiji@reddit

A Lexus ISF

[-]

muffmuppets@reddit

2nd gen Toyota Sequoia

[-]

Bourrrrrrbon@reddit

The 02 Silverado I daily drive as a work truck.

[-]

Extra_Engineering996@reddit

I already own a 65 El Camino.

[-]

Past_Jackfruit_5000@reddit

Grand marquis/crown vic. I still want a marauder.

[-]

Ok_Illustrator_4708@reddit

I'd love my 95 Toyota Corona back perhaps with a new modern engine. I still think they look good.

[-]

graytotoro@reddit

Acura Integra sedan

[-]

Rude-Manufacturer-86@reddit

IS300

[-]

Icy-Initiative-6650@reddit

To all the people saying Toyota, Honda and Lexus are you missing the fact that you have to drive it everyday? You’d gradually die of boredom! The correct answer is an R129 Mercedes SL500

[-]

Tinyberzerker@reddit

My '99 Cherokee is going strong.

[-]

Carcinogenicunt@reddit

Late 80s to mid 90s Volvo. I miss my 940 all the time 😭 the old girl was a beast in the snow!

[-]

ShesATragicHero@reddit

My old truck - which I still have, my old Mercedes - which I still have, and probably this old Camry I recently bought as a runaround. It’s shocking how well it’s made.

Just well designed easy to work on reliable cars. Except the Benz - it’s reliable but the tiny things are getting harder to find and simple fixes can be annoying.

[-]

ramanw150@reddit

My 04 jeep Wrangler 4.0 5 speed. She was awesome till someone totaled her. I drove the dog shit out of that thing also.

[-]

Nalabu1@reddit

A 1993 BMW 525ia. Bullet proof car.

[-]

jckipps@reddit

A gmt800 (99-07) 2500hd pickup would be a solid choice, compared to its 2025 equivalent. It won't tow quite as much, but it's about as bulletproof and capable of a truck as you're going to find.

[-]

Outside_Home_9932@reddit

Any Nissan or Infiniti with the vq30, quick, reliable and with a fantastic if not the best ac system I’ve seen in a car

[-]

remxtc@reddit

2006 Toyota Camry Solara.

[-]

Cute-Technology-4814@reddit

2007 Toyota matrix

[-]

Upper_Personality904@reddit

Honda accord

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Reply_Weird@reddit

2017 F31/N47T BMW 328d diesel wagon

50mpg, incredible torque, practicality of a wagon, efficiency of a hybrid, speed and handling of a BMW. Total package. I would buy this car new today if they sold it.

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miki-wilde@reddit

I'm still using a '93 Metro 3-banger as my daily driver. Only thing I might consider giving her up for is the Tracker model but only up to '95. These things run forever.

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bpgould@reddit

Mercedes diesel

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RafaelSeco@reddit

If I have new car money, why bother with an old one.

You can never get the exact spec you want, you don't know how it was driven before you bought it...

You're either paying a boat load for a very nice one, or a reasonable amount but have to settle for something that's not exactly what you wanted.

And sure, you could buy a nice second hand BMW M3. Or order a brand new m340i or 5 series to your liking.

Buy an old car, dump a boat load of money into it, and still have things to fix. People think about the engine, but that's the least of their worries.

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Manderthal13@reddit

'97 GMC Sierra pickup. Comfortable seats. Reliable 350ci engine. Just a good reliable truck.

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KodaKomp@reddit

LS400, 1st Gen is300, 2nd Gen taco if you're not in rustyland.

(I own the last 2 and live in California both around 220k)

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Gold-Leather8199@reddit

2000 to 2005 buick lasabre

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Parking-Ad-8161@reddit

Just sold my 01 a few weeks ago and it broke my heart. Thing would have went forever if I would have taken better care of the rust.

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Gold-Leather8199@reddit

I had three of them, 150 one two of them

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GBpackerfan15@reddit

Had a 2001 highlander with about 400,000 miles. That car was built like a tank!

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FireMedic1373@reddit

Mercedes-Benz W124

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RafaelSeco@reddit

Go buy one, they are cheap. Saw one the other day, in pristine condition, 230E. Had AC and everything, low mileage, 3400€.

There's a reason they are so cheap...

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FireMedic1373@reddit

I did, 93 300 D. Love it.

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Pretend-Place2839@reddit

1995 Acura integra. Was my first car and she was fun to drive and stupid reliable

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ReditTosser2@reddit

1962 Dart with a 225 slant six and an '833' 4-speed. Driving a '789' 8-3/4 with Hemi spec'd suspension. You could buy this setup at 18 and drive it till your 88, and never have to do anything but simple oil changes and tires.

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homie187g@reddit

2004 accord v-6

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SVLibertine@reddit

Don’t laugh…my 1988 Saab 900 Turbo SPG. Ran flawlessly for four years, but was rear-ended by an asshole doing 60 mph. I was stopped. It saved my life…

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SpecialImage6501@reddit

99 Honda civic

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Comfortable-Figure17@reddit

2911 Tundra drives and tows like a dream. Best vehicle I’ve ever owned.

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HillBlvd@reddit

2003 Toyota Highlander…Have owned it since new. 316,000 miles and many more to come An absolutely outstanding automobile. Would drive it anywhere,anytime

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benzguy95@reddit

Any Mercedes with the SOHC V6 or V8.

I had a 2000 C280 with the SOHC V6 that I was gifted with 145k miles, it made it to 188k miles before its untimely demise but in that time, the most expensive thing I had to do to it was put tires on it.

I’ve seen similar variations (C320, E320, E430 etc) get upwards of 300k or more with little issues and they’re modern but simple enough to work on.

Runner up would be any VW Jetta, Golf or Rabbit with a 5 Cylinder Engine. I got a buddy who bought his ‘05 Jetta when it was 4 years old with around 30-40k miles and it’s got 300k miles on it now.

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EssBeeUK@reddit

Volvo V70 P2. 2001-2007.

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A12851@reddit

95-97 Toyota Land Cruiser

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Alternative_Dig5342@reddit

N52 3-series BMW (2006-2011, iirc)

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theFooMart@reddit

My late 90s Taurus that I had in like 2014. I got a new car and have the Taurus to my dad who drove it for several years. Between the 2 of us, we replaced the brakes, put new headlights in, and replaced some hose for less than $5. The woman who owned it after my dad has no issues with it for the several years that she had it. I'm not sure what happened to it after she passed away, but I'm sure it's still going strong.

I've had some other vehicles, even some that are more fun. If it had heated seats and Android Auto then it would have been my favorite car. Reliable, decently powerful, good on gas, comfortable, no real maintenance issues. Couldn't ask for more.

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badbird310@reddit

It's over 30 now, but I had a 92 fox with a 2.3 and a 5 speed. That car simply refused to die

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mmmmmyee@reddit

2000 honda s2000

But my want for it is moreso driving experience. Nothing like it. Not even miatas. Man i miss my ap1. One day, maybe after we stop paying for daycare 🥲

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lpr_88@reddit

The W211 E55 AMG engines are still running today. Underrated for how powerful they are

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lenbabyluv@reddit

I want a Buick Regal, g body, GNX.

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FreemansAlive@reddit

01-07 Highlander or Camry with V6. ( or equivalent Lexus)

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Monst3r_Live@reddit

03 highlander i had is the best vehicle i ever owned. perfect in every single way.

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SpicyChips69@reddit (OP)

Bulletproof

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Monst3r_Live@reddit

last 30 years is gonna include the best ever hondas and toyotas. 2000-2005 toyotas are the best vehicles of all time in my opinion. 30 years will also include the last year of the most iconic millenial car guy car, the honda civic hatchback. the eg with a b16 defined an era of car tuning. that's the car i want.

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R2-Scotia@reddit

W210

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dm_me_your_bookshelf@reddit

E46 3 series

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qindawoods@reddit

93 Dodge w-250 Cummins/5 speed truck. Bodies aren't the greatest but the rest of the truck is million mile ready.

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MusicMan7969@reddit

2002 - 2019 Chevy Impala. It’s a broad stroke and encompasses 3 gens of Impala’s, but there are still a ton of them on the road. I see them all the time, especially the 2006 -2016 models (9th Gen’s). They were well built, had reliable motors and with basic maintenance will last for 200K+ miles.

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Ok-Friendship-3509@reddit

My Mercedes W212 has been an absolutely fantastic vehicle. I’ve had mine for 7 years and put over 100k on it, it now has nearly 150k miles on it. I’ve done very little to it outside of normal maintenance. I’m considering buying a second for my fiancé to drive.

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CDsDontBurn@reddit

My Honda.

She's got over 410k miles on her.

My T-Bird too, but she's more expensive to fix than my Honda and parts are getting harder to find.

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cincomidi@reddit

1994 Honda accord LX f22b2. Had 150k on the clock when my parents bought it for me for my first car in high school. I rallied it, redline shifting, e brake pulling, burnout contests, clutch dropping, dirt jumping and hill climbing. I passed it along to my younger 3 brothers who all did the same thing to it. Bare minimum upkeep. Oil, tires and a clutch. Finally sold poor Honda at 290k miles to some dude who rolled back the odometer, flipped it, and I continued to see it for years rolling around town.

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corporaterebel@reddit

NSX Hilux 22RE Miata

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revo442@reddit

9th generation Toyota Corolla

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OldSkoolKool666@reddit

1980 Chevy Stepside 4x4 350 engine

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AdFabulous3959@reddit

Toyota pickup

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Naughty_Alpacas@reddit

1998 Honda Civic 2008 Corolla

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GlassCityJim@reddit

Volvo 240, 80’s ish. Ours was running great and had 330,000 miles on it when I donated it to the local radio station.

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olediver2@reddit

I love Tahoes. My first was a 2002 than I bought new and still have at my vacation house. Every major part is easily available and even the drive train is repairable/replaceable. I have a 2004 and a 2015 Tahoe. On one I replaced a transmission and another a rear end. I even rebuilt one engine just because I wanted to. Over the years I have had an air compressor, a water pump or two go out but they are easy to work on and every small shop can easily fix almost anything that can go wrong economically.

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Famous-Salary-1847@reddit

I can’t speak for all of them, but I owned a 98 Chevy k1500 that never had major work done, didn’t leak a single drop of any fluid, started every single time, and had 250k miles when I sold it. I regret that every day. My dad had a 92 c1500 manual trans as well and it was a reliable workhorse for a couple decades, also with only basic maintenance. Both trucks regularly towed well over what they were designed for, live outside their whole life, and never gave any complaint. If I could have my k1500, brand new from a dealer exactly how it came in 1998, I’d spend as much as a new truck on it.

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VeeEight_Guy@reddit

FJ Cruiser

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zoomzoomd16@reddit

99-2000 civic or EL. 5 speed (i currently still own my 1999 acura EL, well over 300k, would buy another in a heart beat if i could buy new or near new) 2008 matrix/vibe 5 speed

For a larger vehicle the 90s gmc/chevrolet 1500 with the 4.3L 5 speed. bullet proof

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earlgray79@reddit

Toyota Tacoma

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FrankIsLoww@reddit

Okay gonna sound crazy, but I bought a 2014 V6 Camaro 6 years ago. Put 60,000 miles on it from the 40K i bought it at. Literally nothing has broken on it every since I bought it.

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Younicycle@reddit

Camry, Avalon or Lexus equivalent.

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SCPATRIOT143@reddit

Toyota

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NoFaithlessness8388@reddit

My 2003 Lexus IS300 with a 5spd manual. Buttery smooth inline 6...still felt brand new at 100k miles without a rattle or squeak anywhere. Rock solid, built in Japan.

I'd still be driving it if we didn't need to upsize to a minivan for the growing family.

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Utvales@reddit

My '92 Cherokee XJ. That straight six growled like V8.

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Tensoneu@reddit

Been driving since 2001, of all the cars for reliability it would be my 2018 Tesla Model 3 and second would be 2007 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. But I would pick the Model 3 any day.

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rklug1521@reddit

02-03 Maxima with a 6 speed are very reliable.

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Street_Regret_9479@reddit

Honda or Toyota to include Acura or Lexus.

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Aware_Vegetable_1504@reddit

2003 dodge Dakota SLT 3.9

22 years later it runs great, but the rust is catching up, just in the last year.

No major repairs, other thank replacing the rear break lines.

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Reverend_Tommy@reddit

1985 Toyota Tercel Wagon.

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series_hybrid@reddit

Toyota Camry. 2005-2016 had a back-up camera as a n option, 2017+ all have it.

Other than that, I'm not picky about the trim level or features.

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nbain66@reddit

After 2017 all US cars had to have a backup camera. My Base Sonic had one.

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Sweet-Gushin-Gilfs@reddit

5th, 6th and 8th gen Honda civics. Fucking things go for top dollar today, but I would happily buy a brand new one today. Especially if it had a B or K series engine. But I’d be willing to settle for a D series with Vtec or R series. Stupidly reliable cars, easy as shit to work on, parts are everywhere, great suspension set up, fun little things.

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Neither-Impress-375@reddit

Not sure honestly but here in Sweden everyone praises the V70 for it’s stellar reliability. My dad had one and while he considered it a gas hog and terrible to drive it was mostly reliable i think.

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RvCampers@reddit

99 to 06 gmt800

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3tighxh@reddit

1990s- 2000s Lexus LX570, literally last forever

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WunderMunkey@reddit

Land Cruisers and 1980’s Mercedes Diesels are about impossible to beat.

I’ve got 220,000 on my 2001 LX470 (fancy pants Land Cruiser) and, aside from some suspension bushings that have left the chat and seats that have definitely felt the miles, kids, and dogs, it still feels almost new. No squeaks or creaks. Engine runs so smoothly you can’t tell it’s on at idle. It feels like a magic carpet at 85 MPH.

It’s built like a train.

I’ve owned it 13 years and driven it a bit over 100,000 miles. I have used it extensively for not gentle off road trips (heavily loaded, airborne more than a couple times, etc.), long distance travel, and my wife’s daily kid/dog bus.

In that time three things have gone wrong with it: steering rack bushings needed to be replaced. A $75 part needed to be replaced in the master cylinder, and two of the hydro-pneumatic suspension globes died and cost about $500 to replace (myself).

I had a similar experience with my 1994 Land Cruiser.

I seriously doubt I’ll ever sell it.

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OpportunitySilent283@reddit

Toyota Sequoia! I drive a 2008 model. It was passed down by my in-laws. Amazing that my husband created fond memories in the car and now my kids get to create memories in it too.

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NeelSahay0@reddit

1990s Toyotas, 1980s BMWs, 2000s Hondas. Honorable mention for 1990s BMWs if they are pre-OBD.

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BasicNeedleworker429@reddit

Put 185k on a 1998 Camry with very little maintenance other than oil and brakes. To be fair though, put 240k on a 1988 Volvo 240 manual 5-speed and it still had the original clutch in it when I sold it. That surprised me.

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everyday_is_enysedae@reddit

Our 2010 g37 - "Shiro". Bought it used with 86k like 3 years ago. Since then I've driven from mid Texas to s. Carolina and back. Then again from mid Texas to New Mexico and back. Plus I used it to Doordash a ton. Car now has over 157k - only one problem, water pump gave out about a year ago. Love that damn car. And I've owned quite a few cars in my life, something like 17 vehicles.
Closest 2nd would be my 2006 Lincoln LS that I bought new, only because that car was literally smashed to hell in a pretty horrific accident but saved my life, I walked away with just a busted lip.

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TooManyCarsandCats@reddit

1988-1999 Buick LeSabre

3800 V6, old enough to have some meat on it instead of the flimsy sheet metal, and seats 6 in a pinch.

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MishkaShubaly@reddit

My 2006 Honda Element is approaching 400k miles and I can still chirp the tires. Hardbody pickups and Toyota Previas are also impossible to kill.

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VerrueckterAmi@reddit

One of the ‘83 Mercedes 300 TD-T (wagons) I used to have. They both had over 300k miles on them. I saw one of them still going down the road after I’d sold it twenty years ago. Never had to do any repairs, just maintenance.

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starvinmarvin0921@reddit

CB7 Accord with a manual transmission

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Vikingkrautm@reddit

My '96 Lexus (Toyota) Landcruiser

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JoeRadd@reddit

Anything that's hot dip galvanised, everything else from that era will rust no matter what under normal use.

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starvinmarvin0921@reddit

Modern Mazdas are pretty darn reliable

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keedman@reddit

2nd gen tundra

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ryan0063@reddit

2013 Acura tl 3.7 awd. Lowest maintenance cost out of any vehicle I have owned plus it’s awesome to drive everyday.

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wettestsalamander76@reddit

LS 400

Diesel Jetta

Diesel Mercedes

Toyota Camry/Corolla

As an underdog oddball: Jaguar XJ6 x300 (when Ford pumped them with billions)

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AcanthocephalaNo7788@reddit

Toyota Prius, have had this car since 2015 besides general maintenance like oil batteries and tires brakes, all I’ve had to replace engine wise was a water pump. Which took me 15min to change and cost me 125$ . Easy to park wherever , great for commute and errands , doesn’t hurt my wallet on gas. Mind you I have a Tundra also.

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blunttrauma99@reddit

First gen (up to 2005) Toyota Tacoma (I think known in the rest of the world as the 6th gen Hilux)

I have a 98 with over 200K miles on it, still going strong, my uncle had one with 426K miles when he sold it.

Mine was the vehicle that drove my son home from the hospital when he was born, and also the vehicle he passed his drivers license test in.

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Beanmachine314@reddit

As long as they don't rust into pieces they'll run forever. The Hilux ceased being sold in the US when the Tacoma came about, they're two completely different trucks.

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greenline19@reddit

Sold my 2003 Tacoma 5 years ago with 240k miles and I guarantee it’s still running if the guy didn’t crash it..only ever did regular maintenance

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wettestsalamander76@reddit

1995-1997 XJ6 x300

I know I know Jaguar and it's infamous reliability but the XJ6 of this era is the most brilliant Jaguar ever made imo.

It's gorgeous and blends in either in city or in the countryside. It's got a sumptuous interior with plenty of wood and Connolly hide. The driving dynamics for a large barge are surprisingly fun and it can hustle (I push the shit out of my x308 on backroads).

It's also a whole hell of a lot more reliable than any jag before or after it. The AJ16 Straight six is an exceptional, understressed motor. It's mated to a bulletproof GM four speed. The electronics are ford, the AC is a denso unit from Ford's supply chain.

The only big downfall is rust given it's steel body.

I think it's a really slept on gem because of Jaguar's very well earned and sometimes unfair reputation for piss poor reliability. This car is one of those sometimes.

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smurf123_123@reddit

LX 470

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Strong_Point_5887@reddit

Lexus es 350. Most dependable car you can own and it holds its value better than almost anything else. Plus the drive is amazing

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CasioOceanusT200@reddit

Late '90s Integra. I can take apart and put that thing back together like Forest Gump with a rifle. If I could have a new one with what I now know about rust prevention? Thing would outlive my grandchildren.

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Old_Suggestions@reddit

Gmc safari Ford ranger Toyota camry

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jeepsies@reddit

My 91 LS400

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Practical_Ride_8344@reddit

1990 240sx

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EngineersFTW@reddit

Had an 03 Corolla for a commuter car. Did over a quarter million before giving it to my son who then got in an accident, lost all oil, drove it for 3 days before it seized.

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snoopE2020@reddit

My 1997 honda accord bare bones lx. Nothing special but could survive a nuclear blast

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Emotional_Ad5833@reddit

Any mazda with the 2.5L duratec engine. They are freaking bullet proof engined

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Scottoulli@reddit

Well, I replaced my 04 is300 with another 04 is300. I’d go with that one

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No_Dream1161@reddit

Volvo 240

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gearhead250gto@reddit

Nissan Hardbody/Frontier with KA24.

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VinceInMT@reddit

I’m still driving my ‘83 Volvo.

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Ar180shooter@reddit

Early 2000's Honda CR-V.

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rj_snow_tx@reddit

I have a 2010 toyota highlander with 264,000 miles.

I would drive it across the country tomorrow if needed.

I would buy it again.

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Thick_Cookie_7838@reddit

I’ve had a two g’s a 13 g35 and a 17 g37 never had any major problems with either one and both had over 100k miles when I got rid of them

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Illustrious-Wolf-162@reddit

2006 Toyota Avalon

Comfort. Luxury. 6 cd changer. Bulletproof

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east21stvannative@reddit

By far my present vehicle. It'll be around long after I'm gone. 2023 Toyota 4runner Pro

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GolfShred@reddit

Volvo 740 Turbo Wagon. I've been driving an 88 740 sedan for the last 8 years and it's been nothing but a work horse and a blast to drive.

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1LuckyTexan@reddit

2003 Subaru Outback H6

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davidwal83@reddit

My first car a 88 Nissan Sentra 4 speed two door. It literally never gave a problem. The clutch cable snapped my first day going to school in it. My Dad replaced it wrong and I was able to start the car without putting my foot on the clutch. The previous owner two daughters learned to drive stick off it. I also learned from owning the car. Parts were all over the junkyard back then. I end up getting a CRX because it was too slow.

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Zootour91@reddit

Interesting thank you

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yottyboy@reddit

Volvo 240 wagon.

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SnapOn93@reddit

94-01 dodge ram 1500 standard cab short bed. Next would be 09-17 VW GTI

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Capital-Ad-4463@reddit

My 1990 Toyota SR5 PU or my 2001 Xterra. Both 5-speed, roll up windows and easy to work on.

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TheCamoTrooper@reddit

Hondas in general, but 2001-2005 civics if fine with burning oil on the D series, 96-2000 with the B20 (SiR), most accords are pretty good, going real old the 88-91 preludes are reliable but old and hard to find parts so unless you get one meticulously maintained its not reliable anymore, 06-2012 civics particularly the Si which has a K20Z3, believe certain 2012-2015 civics got a k series aswell likely the Si, Acura TSX with the K24A2 or the 2002-2012 accords which also recieved a K24. I can mostly speak to Honda's as most of these are cars I currently own or have owned, Mazda is usually pretty good too and have heard good stuff about the Mazda 3s from similar years

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twoshortysx@reddit

90 240sx coupe base model two tone. Close enough to 30 years

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hemibearcuda@reddit

1996 civic. It was abused by two previous owners before I abused it. Did nothing to take care of it except long overdue oil changes.

Gave it away at 250k miles, I just knew my luck was running out and it would leave me stranded somewhere.

New owner got another 50k out of it before they sold it.

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IntheOlympicMTs@reddit

I had an ‘03 Toyota Echo. Best car I ever had. I put 200k on it and only ever did the brakes and tires. And the tires lasted 150K. It was ugly and slow but it always worked.

[-]

SpicyChips69@reddit (OP)

Thank you!

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SnooCrickets6308@reddit

Mid 90s to Mid 2000s Honda or Toyota.

[-]

miseeker@reddit

88 ranger