I like the Metro. The mileage is really great. But, I'm getting a bit sick of working on it all the time... fixing stuff, not fun stuff like modding. So, I'm thinking about replacing it with something else. Not necessarily something newer, but likely newer. Something more reliable. Something more fun. It doesn't need to be fast, but better handling would be great (removing the rear sway bar on the Metro due to rust definitely didn't help this haha). I am looking to find something that will last me a while so I can do some more extensive mods without wondering if its going to die on me in the next 6 months. I'd like it to get at least 30 mpg, but I'm a bit flexible. I really don't drive my car that much, about 5k miles a year. I'm in no hurry at all and will search for a deal. Spending limit is around $5k, lower is always better.
What I don't want: truck, SUV, or large car (rented a 2015 Impala for work last week, not interested, but the auto stop feature was cool).
Some current ideas:
iMiEV - Still a bit pricier than I'd like to spend. I've had my eye out for one for a while now. Its range would suit me perfectly. The battery pack gives this car a low center of gravity and makes it handle pretty well from what I hear. It certainly doesn't look like it would haha.
Toyota Celica - Always loved the last gen body style. I even have a Corolla trans kicking around to lower cruising rpm which is horrible on this car.
I saw a 08 Cobalt SS for sale locally for about $5k with some rear end damage. That looked like it would be fun car. I may look into that. EPA says 30 mpg hwy. Thats only 1 mpg less than the Celica.
I know there are a ton of other options out there that meet my criteria, so I'm looking for ideas!