For most people, buying a car is one of the biggest financial decisions they’ll make. But what if you could buy a budget-friendly vehicle that stays reliable well past 400,000 miles? While luxury cars grab headlines, it’s these humble workhorses that quietly rack up the miles.
These budget-friendly legends are built for the long haul, proving that affordable doesn’t mean disposable. From practical sedans to versatile SUVs—and even a sporty roadster—these cars are celebrated not just for their price tags but for their extraordinary endurance. Here are 10 budget cars that can cross 400K miles and just keep going.
1. Toyota Corolla: The King of Longevity
The Toyota Corolla is one of the most globally trusted names in automotive reliability. With simple engineering and consistently high build quality, many Corollas push beyond 400,000 miles on original engines. Maintenance is affordable, parts are everywhere, and the design prioritizes durability over flash.
Whether used as a commuter car, student vehicle, or family runabout, the Corolla never quits. Owners often report hitting half a million miles with routine oil changes and basic care. If you’re looking for a budget car that lasts a lifetime, the Corolla deserves a top spot on your list.

2. Honda Civic: Reliable, Affordable, Indestructible
The Honda Civic is a compact legend, known for fuel efficiency, affordability, and unbeatable reliability. From the 1990s models to modern variants, Civics have proven capable of racking up 400,000 miles and beyond.
With their bulletproof four-cylinder engines and low maintenance costs, these cars are perfect for anyone who wants a no-fuss daily driver. Some Civics with original engines have even hit 1 million miles. Its practicality, comfort, and reputation for never dying make it a favorite among commuters, students, and long-distance drivers alike.

3. Toyota Camry: Unstoppable Midsize Icon
If the Corolla is the small, scrappy marathoner, the Camry is its more comfortable and equally reliable big sibling. Known for its quiet ride and solid performance, the Toyota Camry consistently ranks among the longest-lasting vehicles on the road. It’s not unusual to find used Camrys with over 400,000 miles still running well.
Thanks to robust engineering and efficient engines, the Camry balances dependability with a more refined driving experience. For families and professionals looking for a dependable car with room to stretch, the Camry is a smart long-term investment.

4. Honda Accord: Camry’s Eternal Rival
The Honda Accord rivals the Camry in every possible way, especially in reliability. Accords are frequently found passing the 400K mark, and some have even topped 600,000 miles with diligent maintenance.
Honda’s engineering gives the Accord a reliable heart, while its balanced ride and thoughtful interior make it comfortable over the long haul.
Affordable to own, fuel-efficient, and easy to repair, the Accord proves that you don’t need a premium badge to enjoy premium durability. If you’re after a budget-friendly car that won’t leave you stranded, the Accord is a top contender.

5. Mazda MX-5 Miata: Sporty and Stubborn
You might not expect a fun, rear-wheel-drive roadster to make this list, but the Mazda MX-5 Miata is a unique exception. Known for its lightweight design and mechanical simplicity, the Miata can outlast even the most rugged sedans. Many Miatas surpass 400,000 miles with basic upkeep, and a few have gone beyond 900,000.
Its affordability, reliability, and massive enthusiast community mean parts and advice are always available. For drivers who want a reliable daily car with weekend joyrides built in, the Miata delivers long-term fun and functionality.

Also Read: 10 Cars With the Cheapest Long-Term Ownership Costs
6. Lexus LS400: Affordable Luxury that Lasts Forever
Launched by Toyota to challenge German luxury sedans, the Lexus LS400 redefined what luxury could mean. It was priced lower, yet built to extreme durability standards. The LS400 is infamous for running virtually forever—Matt Farah even drove one to 1 million miles.
Despite its V8 powertrain and premium features, maintenance is simple and relatively cheap. While technically a luxury car, used LS400s can now be found for budget prices, offering unbeatable value. If you want a high-mileage hero with a plush ride and legendary build quality, the LS400 is unmatched.

7. Ford Crown Victoria: The Indestructible Tank
The Ford Crown Victoria may have ended production, but its legacy lives on in taxi fleets and police departments. These big-bodied sedans were built for abuse, and many are still going strong with over 400,000 miles on the odometer. Their V8 engines and body-on-frame construction are simple and built to last.
Retired cop cars and cabs are often sold cheap, making them excellent high-mileage bargains. Despite their size and thirst for fuel, Crown Vics offer unmatched durability for budget buyers who want a car that just keeps going.

8. Toyota Avalon: The Reliable Sleeper
The Toyota Avalon combines Camry-level reliability with full-size sedan comfort. It often flies under the radar, but those in the know appreciate its longevity. Avalons routinely surpass 300,000 miles, and with consistent maintenance, 400K isn’t a stretch.
With a smooth V6 engine and plush interior, it offers a luxury-adjacent experience without the repair costs of premium brands. For those who want a refined ride on a budget without sacrificing dependability, the Avalon is one of Toyota’s best-kept secrets.

9. Toyota Sequoia: SUV Stamina Personified
The Toyota Sequoia shows that SUVs can be just as reliable as sedans. Built on a rugged platform with a strong V8 engine, the Sequoia is engineered for long-haul durability. It’s regularly ranked among the most likely SUVs to exceed 200,000 miles—and many easily break the 400K barrier.
Perfect for families, adventurers, or work crews, the Sequoia delivers a long service life with minimal complaints. Though fuel efficiency isn’t its strong suit, its ability to run forever makes it a top pick for a dependable, long-lasting SUV.

10. BMW E30: A DIY-Friendly European Gem
While most high-mileage cars are Japanese, the BMW E30 is a European outlier known for long-term reliability—if properly maintained. The E30’s mechanical simplicity and solid build allow it to cross the 400K-mile mark with care.
It demands more attention than a Corolla, but for enthusiasts who enjoy wrenching and want a car with old-school charm, the E30 delivers. With regular servicing—especially timing belts and cooling systems—this classic 3-Series can be a long-term companion. It proves that even European performance cars can be budget-friendly mile munchers.

These 10 budget cars prove that high mileage doesn’t require a high price tag. Whether you’re after comfort, performance, practicality, or luxury, there’s a long-lasting vehicle here for you. From Japanese stalwarts like the Corolla and Civic to the unexpected endurance of a Miata or BMW E30, these cars are built to endure.
With proper care, many of these vehicles will take you well past 400,000 miles—making them not just budget-friendly, but life-friendly too. So if you’re shopping smart and thinking long-term, these mile-munchers offer the best returns per dollar on the road.
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