The 2000's Buicks are sweet, and cheap. Usually low miles and not hot-rodded. I would go looking for a Honda Fit. I bought an 07 when I needed an alternative to my truck. I love the thing. good gas mileage room for wife and 3 kids and the seats fold down for camping and loading every thing cargo. A fun car to drive unless you like acceleration. 0-60 is like 9 seconds. Small cheap tires, cheap insurance, SUPER easy to maintain. You mentioned long term cost. Pads and rotors were about 50 bucks for the good quality parts, could have been less if I bought cheap bits. Most older Hondas with under 200k should fit your bill.