Get a 92-95 2 Door Honda Civic hatchback that has less than 200,000 miles on it that's in good running order and has been well looked after (for example, had it's oil changed every 3,000 miles). Buy private, not from a dealer. You should be able to buy one of these cars for less than half what you have. Save $1,000 to $2,000 for repairs and maintenance after you buy it. After that you should be good to go for several years only paying for gas and oil changes every 3,000 miles. These cars get 40+ mpg and you will save a LOT of money on gas compared to owning any other car. These little cars are also sporty and fun to drive. With all the money you'll save owning this car for 3-5 years, you'll save enough money to buy the car of your dreams (within reason) for your next car.