 I'm in college, purchased my car on eBay with 35k miles on it.  I did my research and have had the expected issues - radiator, window regulator, cupholder, grills.  I have used enthusiast message boards to find, fix, and do preventive maintenance.  I now have 71K miles on it and everything works as it should.  I love driving the car, it handles great and is wonderful for long road trips.  I live on a tight budget and have been savvy enough to keep this car in order, which leads me to believe that anyone can. I think I'll see just how far this one will go.  If you buy an older car, research it and spend some money doing preventative work like transmission flushes, etc.  Mainly enjoy driving.