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Vitamink
User
Jan 2, 2014, 3:52 PM
Post #1 of 5
(2005 views)
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Station Wagon vs Minivan
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So, I realize that this is sort of an open ended question, but I'd welcome any sort of opinions on the matter.
So, our 1996 Dodge Grand Caravan Minivan is a wonderful vehicle in terms of space and utility for my wife and I and our three kids, but at 225k, it's starting to near the end of its useful life.
Having not much in the way of money right now, we'd likely have to replace it with another used vehicle...only one that hopefully has a little less monthly mechanical problems.
Looking around at some listings, I saw a 1993 Buick Roadmaster Wagon with 88k miles for about 3k. I thought this was a pretty awesome possibility, but my wife was cool on the prospect. She'd rather consider something like another minivan.
What I'm wondering is...given the choice between the station wagon, and a minivan of similar mileage...which would give us less mechanical problems down the line? I know any vehicle at this mileage is going to have issues, but minivans seem "flimsy" to me in comparison to a huge V8 station wagon.
Anybody have thoughts or comments here?
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Hammer Time
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Jan 2, 2014, 4:29 PM
Post #2 of 5
(1993 views)
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Re: Station Wagon vs Minivan
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There are no guarantees on either of those choices and it really isn't much of a choice between either a 20 year old Buick or a van with over 200K. You have to realize that anything with over 8oK is going to be due for maintenance, ie; brakes, ignition, fluids, tires etc. A 20 year old car would present a whole new set of risks, just from the age.
If you find a 2003, 2004 minivan with under 100K, you would be going in the right direction.
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We offer help in answering questions, clarifying things or giving advice but we are not a substitute for an on-site inspection by a professional.
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Discretesignals
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Jan 3, 2014, 5:51 PM
Post #3 of 5
(1975 views)
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Re: Station Wagon vs Minivan
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1993 Roadbastard with a 88K on the clock? Nothing like driving a full frame Sherman tank, if your into that sort of thing. If you are good with working on older TBI chevy small blocks, that would be a decent ride. You should have it fully checked out by your mechanic to be sure its not some type of rust bucket or doesn't have some type of major problem that wouldn't make it worth buying.
When I worked on them when they were still new at the dealer, they really didn't have very many issues until the LT1 showed up. They are excellent highway vehicles if you don't mind the crappy fuel mileage.
Since we volunteer our time and knowledge, we ask for you to please follow up when a problem is resolved.
(This post was edited by Discretesignals on Jan 3, 2014, 5:56 PM)
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nickwarner
Veteran
/ Moderator
Jan 4, 2014, 7:36 AM
Post #4 of 5
(1961 views)
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Re: Station Wagon vs Minivan
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Also bear in mind the Buick is rear wheel drive, so if you live where there is snow take that into account. Another Caravan might be a better idea. The Buick has enough age on it alone that you'd definitely be replacing things just for being aged. Its a simple enough car to work on if you are doing the work on it, but might get a bit pricey if you're paying a shop to do it.
If you want a wagon with better mileage, Subaru does pretty well. For minivans I prefer the Caravan over all else if it has the 3.8 motor. Just remember whatever you get the older it is and the higher the miles means you pay less to get it but a lot more in the end to drive it.
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