I'm in need of purchasing a used vehicle, and since it will purely be for commuting, I want a 4cyl to save on gas (manual trans even better).

Problem is, I've been so far removed from 4cyl motors for so long, I don't know what's good and what's not.

I have my eye on a compact or midsize 1998-2002 Chrysler or GM vehicle (Ford's just aren't my bag). I'm particularily interested in the Dodge Stratus or Neon, for no particular reason other than we have a Chrysler mini van and I really like it.

Looks like Chrysler uses 2.0 or 2.4l motors, GM looks like they use some 1.9s and maybe 2.2s?

Honestly, I don't even really know what's out there, but if you had asked me 10 years ago about a GM 2.3 or 2.5, I could have told you to avoid the Quad-4 and get the more reliable 2.5 -- that's kinda what I need. I don't need sport, I need MPG for cheap.

And any thoughts on what to look for in a particular motor when car shopping to avoid problems in the future.

Thanks!!!

In terms of reliability and economy, I would be looking at Honda and Toyota, not Chrysler and Chevy.

I think a chevy cobalt has a 4 doesn't it

in my opinion do not go neon or stratus! they suck

The Ecotec engine in the 03+ Cavalier/Sunfire And Saturn Ion is unbeatable in reliability.

in personally would be lookin at a honda civis, or nissan sentra. foreigns are jus usually gonna beat domestics in the reliability and mileage of 4 bangers...

Honda civics are good cars. The latest one is a 1.8L with 140 hp and is rated at about 30mpg city and 40 highway. you also have the toyota corolla , mazda3 and chevy cobalt which i think are all good 4's.