Does it make sense to buy an econobox car for the high gas prices, or will that cost more in the long run?

Posted by Blu_yello_husky@reddit | askcarguys | View on Reddit | 235 comments

Last time gas prices reached an all time high under Biden in 22', I actually bought an economy for beater so I could still get around without breaking the bank. I ended up trading the car for a slightly newer, "better" economy car in 23', then i ended up selling that one outright in 24' because gas prices went back down and I didnt need the car anymore.

Well, now that prices continue to climb up to the $6 mark, I more and more kick myself for selling those compacts a few years ago. Should I buy another one now? Or is that financially stupid? Will i save more in the long run if I drop $800-1000 now on an eco-beater that gets 30mpg, or will it be cheaper to just keep paying $60-70 at the pump every week until the war is over? Thoughts?