Junior project car

95-98 Mustang is probably the only thing in that price range that’s not a total crap box. A single cab Dakota with a 5.9 and 5 speed is another option, but a rare combo to locate for $5k.

If it doesn’t have to be a V8 a neon SRT4 can be had in that price range. Mine got 28mpg average. Best highway MPG(not stock)was with a 60mm turbo at 70 mph it would hit high 30’s and run 12’s at the track.