[Sven7]

Another thought would be a Volvo 240 series. It may not be the most economical for long trips, but the enthusiast support you get is extraordinary for DIY frugality. A friend of mine has a 244 Turbo and I am always amazed about the things he finds on turbobricks.com. People find the most inexpensive ways to fix those cars, and since they are simple RWD stone blocks of cars with their roots in late 60's technology, you know they're built robustly and plentiful enough to find a few parts cars.

The main issue is that what I consider the "golden age" of automobiles, the late 80's and early 90's, is already over 20 years ago. Many cars from that era are nearing the end of their useful lives. The best generations of Civics are rusting out and the Mk2/Mk3 VW diesels are beat to hell. However, if you can find a late model 240 with a great maintenance history, it still may be worth a look.