Looking for basic truck for friend - So Cal.

[Plekto]

I have a friend who needs a basic 2wd or similar truck to get around in.  Her current job requires her to run around from job site to job site delivering stuff, so her 12mpg(ag!) van is reaming her for $500 a month in gas.

Basically it needs to be cheap and run.  Carbs and 1975 or older preferred, or even a little diesel if newer - (wants to avoid smog and computers - ideally VW Bug simple to fix and keep running)  Doesn't need AC, power windows, or any of that, either.  Does need to be DD capable.

Needs to get 25mpg, though.  So 4x4s and 4Runners and the like are out.  I asked - wants maximum MPG.  Automatic preferred, but not required.

Needs to be under $1000.  She's in the middle of a divorce and money is tight - she's looking to keep her van since it's paid off, but obviously 200-250 a month in gas would be far better for her than $500.

[BUDDERS]

you might want to check out one of those old vw trucks like this:


http://sandiego.craigslist.org/nsd/car/779243090.html

[Plekto]

Yeah, except... wow what a crazy price for that thing.

[BUDDERS]

Yeah, the price is just stupid, but they last forever and get great gas mileage.

[Plekto]

She's in the middle of a divorce and trying to keep her house from foreclosing so her budget is $600-$800, maybe $1000 if it needs no mechanical work, tops. (AC not working or crack in windshield and so on no biggie)

[BUDDERS]

Good luck.  There's nothing on the S.D. craigslist worth buying for that price.