Best Cheap Cars

Toyota and Honda: Known for their reliability and easy maintenance affordability. Anecdotes from Reddit users highlight long-lasting Toyota trucks and Hondas without mechanical problems.
Mazda: While not discussed much, Mazda is often praised for offering fun, reliable, and affordable cars.
Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla: Specifically mentioned for their reliability and affordability.
Lexus and Acura: Seen favorably for comfort, reliability, and dealer service costs.
Ford F family and GM trucks: Known for their reliability and cost-effective repairs compared to some other American cars.
Chevy Silverado and Ford F150: Highly rated for reliability comparable to Toyota trucks.
Alfa Romeo 156 3.0 V6: Praised for its unique Busso engine sound and drama.
Lotus Exige: Described as fun to drive and providing a true sports car experience.
BMW M340i: Recommended as a solid choice that combines performance, luxury, and reliability.
Audi TTRS, Porsche Cayman S, BMW M2: Suggestions for high-performance cars within the budget range.

Worst Car Experiences

Vauxhall Cavalier, VW Bora V5: Mentioned as unreliable and poor in quality.
Renault Megane 3, Dodge Ram: Criticized for mechanical issues and subpar reliability.
Ford Fiesta, Lada Samara: Noted as problematic and unreliable.

Car Maintenance and Ownership Experience

Toyota Tacoma, Lexus RX350, Prius, BMW: Shared experiences of zero mechanical problems and satisfying ownership with these models.
American vs. Japanese Cars: Comparison of repair costs between American trucks like Ford F family and GM trucks vs. Japanese Toyota and Honda.
Maintenance Costs: Feedback on the cost of servicing different car brands, with some mechanics charging more for German and luxury brands.

Car Recommendations

Used Cars: Consider renting different car models on platforms like Turo to make an informed decision.
Budget Choices: Suggestions for used American trucks like Ford F family and GM trucks, and Japanese mainstays like Toyota and Honda.
Sports Cars: Recommendations for Porsche, Lotus, Alfa Romeo, and Mazda for fun driving experiences.

These Reddit comments provide a diverse range of perspectives on car ownership, maintenance, and reliability, focusing on popular brands known for their affordability and durability, such as Toyota and Honda. It also delves into specific models praised or criticized by users based on personal experiences.