TTAC's Top Ten Back to School Cars

by Robert Farago

Published: August 18th, 2009

KBB is ever-so-sensible. Here’s their “top ten back to school cars:” 2010 Kia Soul, 2010 Mazda3, 2009 Ford Focus, 2007 Suzuki SX4, 2006 Honda Civic, 2005 Chevrolet Silverado. Wait! That’s only six! I’ve got to click from the press release to the website to get the last four? The suspense is killing me/you/no one . . . 2009 Nissan Cube, 2007 Suzuki SX4, 2005 Ford Escape, 2009 Honda Fit, 2005 Scion xB. So how did kbb pick their winners? They like them! Mind you, “Every new car listed on this year’s Back-to-School list features New Car Blue Book Values that start at under $18,000. Every used car identified has a Kelley Blue Book Suggested Retail Value of less than $12,000.” I guess they never heard of Beverly Hills 90210. Or college kids with a grand in the hand. So it’s time for YOU to pick TTAC’s top ten “back to school” cars, price no object, on either end of the spectrum. UPDATE: Wow! You guys are a serious-minded bunch. Here are some of your wilder choices and some of mine. Tell me what should stay and what should go (in its place), and why. Or not. Either way, thanks for the help.

Robert Farago

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2 of 72 comments

WildBill on Aug 19, 2009

1966 Plymouth Belvedere II sedan. Worked for me it'll work for today's snot noses!

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Jpcavanaugh on Aug 19, 2009

College kids need cheap and durable. Crown Vic/Grand Marquis Taurus Buick Century (or an old Cutlass Ciera) An old Accord/Civic/Camry/Corolls is good but more expensive. If looking for something a little older/more unique, can't beat an old Valiant/Dart with a slant 6 and a Torqueflite. If you can find one not from the rustbelt, they are simple and nearly indestructable. Good ventilation system, so you won't need a/c, either. (yes, I had one of these in college, so I know firsthand.)

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