I think the Ford Focus would be too cramped for me, at least it was in my friend's passenger side.

Focus is a good choice for the price, but they've had like twelve recalls of them by the dealership to have problems fixed.. Ford rushed them to the dealers so they could get there to compete against all the other tiny compacts.. although they do always give you a rental to drive when it happens.. a friend of a friend has one, bought brand new, and in the three years she's had it, she's driven a rental from the dealer more than her own car

Honda makes the Element... and looks aside, it's an extremely practical vehicle. The entire rear is plastic and can be washed out with a fire hose... genius.

As for a good compact, check out the Eurospec Civic hatch: http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=280723957717355448&q=fifth+gear

We'll pretend I didn't juxtapose Honda and Toyota.

Good. I might have to murder your otherwise.

I've got a friend who has a Scion tc, and it's an awesome little car.

If you're still looking, you can always try buying through Enterprise; that is, if you're not too super picky. That's what I did after I wrecked my Acura. Ended up getting an '03 Mitsubishi Lancer for seven thousand. It's in great condition, and a joy to drive - though my only disappointment with it is that it's an automatic, but the price and overall performance so far has made up for that.

Enterprise car rental? Good prices on rental sells-offs... not sure that outweights the negatives. Example: how many used condoms have you found in your backseat? ;)

I think the xB is the logical choice for Cracker...

Oh that's clever! Except, not really.

And none, thank you. The car was wonderfully immaculate when it was delivered to me.

We've found a good deal that we are thinking about taking up. A ford F-150 fresh out of the factory, extended cab, line model, on sell for 11Grand.

If by "factory" you mean "autobody shop" because this vehicle is an insurance write-off and rebuild, I might believe you...