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mitch96

Hi
My dads 1997 ford el falcon xr6 with 220,000kms is beginning to have some issues, and I believe it is time for him to get rid of it.
For generally a $6000 budget, what sort of mid-sized cars would you recommend. Priorities is that is is a reliable vehicle and will probably be in 5 or more years time (will stand the test of time), can tow a small to mid sized boat, is generally economical (but this is not top of my dad priority), and costs around $6k.

A few ideas were Toyota Camry (2003-2005), Nissan Skyline (2001-2003), Mazda6 (2002), Hyundai Sonata (2004-2007) or Nissan Maxima/Teana (2003-2005). Or what about going slightly smaller such as Nissan Tiida/Mazda3, is this more recomended?

Thanks

ABayliss

While you can minimise the risk, there are no guarantees that a $6k car will be good for 5 years.
Having said that, of the ones you've mentioned, the Camry, Mazda6/Atenza and Maxima/Teana would be good options (although avoid an earlier Nissan with CVT transmission).
Basically, most of the mainstream Japanese mid-size cars should be fine. Another one to consider in this price range might be the Honda Accord (if he can find a good example in his price range).
If your dad needs to tow, I think these cars would be better than the Tiida or Mazda3 size cars.