So,I was wondering, we are looking a 2001 Mazda Protege for my first car, it only has around 56k on it, which is great, and it's under our budget. So, I was wondering, do they generally make good cars? What about winter driving? Thanks!
The best first car, or any other car, to own is the most mass produced domestic models with a good track record. Mechanics know how to work on them, they don't require dealer only parts, there's lots of parts available in the auto parts stores and junkyards for these cars, and they are cheap to maintain in comparison to any "foreign" brand cars.
I drive a 2002 Mazda Protege 5, and it's been a great little car.
56,000? Buy it. With good winter tires, you can go anywhere; I put snowies on and go for drives just for fun. With all-seasons, you'll get stuck like any other car or truck.
Nice little car, front wheel drive cars go well in the snow, just make sure you have a good all season tires on it and you will be fine. Be careful driving in the snow, it takes time to learn how to do that. I think you will be fine. "good luck"