“And oh yes, only suckers buy new cars these days, when a two year old used car is half the price and still lasts ten years.”
Not true so much anymore. Because there are fewer “suckers”, used car prices are at record levels. And, there are no “good, cheap” cars anymore, Cash for Clunkers put a big dent in those. That alone turned more than a few young Democrats into Republicans where I work.
Watch local want ads. Some of the best vehicles we have had were from estates (parent died, 'kids' (middle aged) didn't need another vehicle and often sell older but little-used vehicles at bargain prices. (Think a 1998 with 35,000 miles on it). The money you save can go in the gas tank. Often, these were garaged and meticulously serviced, often by dealer mechanics.
Used (off-lease and former rental) vehicles have usually been well maintained if not always well driven. Local, non-franchise rental agencies can offer some deals, especially near the end of the year when they cull the fleet for tax purposes.
Bargains can be had there as well, and then there are State and Municipal impound auctions, although these may involve more risk of getting a lemon.
There are still bargains out there, but you aren't likely to find them on a dealer lot.