Look at estate sales or auctions.
Bring a mechanic friend with you.
In my city, the police send unclaimed impounded cars to auction. Sometimes you stand a chance of paying a fraction of what a car is worth.
Hi Jonyu,
It’s better to go hours before the non-governmental auctions take place.
Usually wholesaler lots are nearby and are detailing their cars in preparation.
They often prefer cash in hand and no auction fees/uncertainty. Plus, one can usually get a better look at the vehicles.