[99metro]

I have to side with the Geo Metro, of course. Try to find an XFI model. At least if the motor goes, you are looking at just over $300 plus shipping, and a day to replace if you aren't a mechanic - like me.

I had a 1984 S-10 with a 1.9L 4-speed, bought new. Turning the distributor, I got 33 mpg at 65 mph. I imagine with hypermiling and slowing down, I coulda/shoulda got mid 40's. If you had a limited slip in the rear and a set of BFGs, you's do ok with traction in the snow. My 87 S-10 2.8 had that and it did just fine for a few winters in Syracuse.