Top 10 Best Values in Used Vehicles

You needn’t be a member of Mensa to know that the best deals in used cars will be vehicles that get poor fuel mileage. Also, pawnshop display areas are full of vehicles that can best be described as toys: Harleys, jacked-up SUVs, modified Camaros, sports cars with aftermarket turbochargers, and more.


But don’t despair. By some estimates, 40 percent or more of the increase in gasoline price is caused by the devaluation of the dollar, which is connected to the home mortgage debacle. It’s possible—likely even—that gas prices will drop below $3 a gallon in the near future. If that’s true, the value of these cars will rocket back up to their previous prices. Americans will forget $4.40 gas within days if not hours.


Others say forces are at work to keep crude oil prices unnaturally high. Even if prices stay high, don’t be in a hurry to trade in your gas-guzzler: You can buy a whole lot of gas for the price of new economy car.


Here are 10 used cars that are great values:

Ford F-150
When new, the most expensive 2007 Ford F-150s cost about $35,000. Today, a dealer will give you less than $15,000 on a trade-in. You might get another few grand if you sell it directly to another person. Meanwhile, a V-6-equipped bottom-of-the barrel 2000 V-6 short bed goes for less than $4,000. You might as well drive it until it drops.

Dodge Ram 1500 Long Bed
Dodges are notorious for losing more value than their competition. Don’t even bother trying to trade in a 2006 Dodge Ram. The dealer will give you about $2,500 if he takes the trade at all. It’s reported that some Honda dealers won’t accept full-sized pickups and SUVs. You might get about $5,000 if you can find a private party buyer. If you’re looking for a good deal, this is one of the best you can buy.

Dodge Grand Caravan
In 2007, Grand Caravan minivans went for about $24,000. Compared to the Ram, the price hasn’t plummeted, but don’t expect to get more than $7,000 at trade-in time. Another good deal for used-car shoppers.

Lincoln Navigator
Back in 2007, a four-wheel-drive Lincoln Navigator went for more than $52,000. They’re worth about half that through a private party. Even if gas is $4 a gallon, you can buy 6,250 gallons for that kind of deal. That’s more than 100,000 miles of fuel.