I must admit that working with a tight budget has its fun challenges. My previous ride needed a lot of work to get through its annual inspection and I no longer have the means to tackle the welding work myself.
I found a locally advertised Mercedes A-Class that was cheaper than the repair costs of the other car. It had 2 knackered door locks, not seen a decent service in years, but had a fresh approval until december.
Fixed the locks. Zero cost. Replaced the dash light bulbs and had it serviced. Ordered a 30 dollar seat adjustment handle and we were ready. My pal at the workshop donated a set of original hub caps from the parts archive.
So decent transport, with acceptable economy and great seats for a screwed up back for under $1000. And still a Mercedes
Nicknamed it 'Taschenpanzer' (pocket tank).