I needed an older reliable car for commuting to work and for short trips that is reliable and has good gas mileage (gas is again getting close to $3.00 per gallon). I saw a used 1993 Geo Prizm that was advertised at a local reputable auto dealership. I understood that Geo Prizms are primarily the same car as the Toyota Corolla, so I decided to jump on this opportunity and I took the car for a test drive. Now, this car has the 1.6 liter, 4 cyl engine and a 5-speed manual transmission. It has A/C and a basic AM/FM cassette stereo. It does not have power windows or door locks, which is very unusual for any car I have ever owned. In fact, I don't believe it has any power accessories at all.

The car drove beautifully. It has ample power for commuting (even up some steep grades during the test drive, handles fine, is fairly quiet, and is fairly comfortable. The back seat is a little short on leg room, though. The front seat and reach to the switches and steering wheel is a perfect fit for me and I am 6' tall.

The 5-speed transmission makes a big difference. I previously drove a 1993 Corolla with an automatic and it seemed a lot slower. Besides, driving a "stick" makes you feel young again and brings out the fun in driving.

The paint is starting to fade on the roof and on the trunk. I wonder if this is due to the prior owner's neglect, or is this normal for 1993 Geo's??? For a commute car that's okay with me. I am not trying to impress anyone with my car.

Anyway, I highly recommend this model car for anyone who can find one in good condition. Mine has a bit over 100K miles, but drives like a new car. I expect it to give me years of problem-free driving and excellent gas mileage.
Amount Paid (US$): 3400
Condition: Used
Model Year: 1993
Model and Options: 5-speed