i don't even know what kind of car i want, but i know it'd have to be < $7,000
suggestions?
I mean, a car is a very personal choice. You'll never be happy with your car if you just grab the first thing that works within your budget. Things I would steer away from: cars that have been in accidents, have dilapidated interiors, or are extremely aesthetically unpleasing. The last one is a big one, I know a guy with a PT Cruiser who has to apologize to everyone before he picks them up for his car. Aside from that, the rest is up to you. If you want a burly muscle car, go for a classic Camaro or something. If you want a nice looking car, see if you can pick up an early 2k model car that shipped out on the cheaper side, like a Subaru Impreza. A personal favorite older car of mine is the Nissan 300zx. I think the z31 is cooler looking, but the z32 is pretty cool too (both are 300zx, just depend on model year). Give us some criteria and I'll try to help you.