new car...
 

thanks to some ancient lady plowing into me at a stoplight my stang is totalled! I'm not sure if I want another stang cause of gas and the bad winters we get here, so what are some good cars for under $8000? I'm looking for something fast, good handling and reliable because I need it to last through college. thanks

Sorry to hear about that. As far as gas is concerned, I don't think you'll find much that is very sporty that gets better than near 20/28, which is about what my Mustang normally gets. You might be able to pick up a ZX2 for around there. Maybe a newer Cougar is you look hard.