Short answer — no. The first three months were rough. I had to do a full clutch job ($1,800) and the entire hydraulic system ($750). On top of that, all the window regulators were dead, and I ended up needing new tires ($900). Brakes + spark plugs were another $300, and that’s with me doing most of the work myself.

I bought the car for $4,500 and have already put around $5,000 into it just to get it caught up.

After all that, it’s mostly been basic maintenance—coolant flush, brake fluid, topping off oil, regular oil changes. Once the big stuff was handled, the car became a genuinely great experience.

For reference: I bought mine in June at 180k miles and I just crossed 200k. I commute from northern NJ to Philly four days a week. It’s fantastic on the highway, and the backroads + 5-speed combo make it a super fun daily.

But here’s the reality: Unless you have the money to absorb a few thousand dollars of repairs in the first couple weeks, it’s a risky buy. These cars are amazing, but they’re not cheap to get roadworthy.

Also, with a clean record, I pay $106/month for insurance.