New cars are for dopes. They’re meant to appeal to suckers. Sure, they’re nice and all — in fact, they’re downright gorgeous. It’s hard to not want one, especially if you happen to catch it doing donuts out in the desert on some commercial. Sleek interiors, the polish of leather, and all hat aerodynamic business is enough to make any boob tube slave want to ditch their bucket of bolts and finance a new beauty.

The prime problem is the cost. All new care are too expensive. I don’t care what make or model catches your fancy, you’re looking to finance at least $13,000 easy. Hen, depending on your credit score, you could end up paying more like $25,000 for the privilege of driving that sleek beast. Who said being a sucker wasn’t en vogue?

I know I got you with my jabs, now here comes the uppercut. Any used car for sale you can find online is bound to cost you a third of the cost of a new one. You can bag yourself a fully loaded, slightly older model for peanuts. Here’s a choice: $13,500 for a new Ford Focus or $3,000 for a 2003 or 2004 model? See what I mean?

Used cars get a bad rep. Buying one usually conjures seedy dealerships and loser salesmen out to do you in with a slick smile and empty promises. But you can find reputable dealers online — in fact, you can even find out of the dealership has managed to find its way to Rip Off Report or the BBB. Do your research — there’s no sense finding a great deal and paying a dirty dealer for it.

What should you do if the mileage on that lovely used car is astronomical? Well, it depends on the make. Most Volvos don’t get started until they’re well past 100 K. A ’64 Ford Mustang, on the other hand, might be better off as a weekend or show car. The key is knowing what you’re going to need the car far. It is for commuting everyday? Then pass on the ’56 Bel Air and find yourself a car less than 10 years old.

You can find lots of used cars for sale online and score yourself a beauty of a deal. Just stay frosty and make sure you’re dealing with a reputable dealership.