What is the best used car to buy from 1995-2002?

I'm looking for a used car from the 1995-2002 range, just because of the price range. I'm a college student looking to buy a car for about $2500. Everyone swears by Honda and Toyota but the ones I've seen are usually just thrashed inside and are dirty. Also, they usually need some work on them. I've been looking at some Volvo's… Which I'm not sure if thats a good idea. I've heard that they are expensive to maintain, but if they have been maintained correctly, will they be okay?

Just some input from someone who knows about that range of cars and what's a good option would be awesome!

The cars I'm most interested in are Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Subaru Impreza or Outback, Volvo V70, maybe Ford Focus.

Finding a reliable used car for less than $5,000 is tough. You may want to check AutoTrader.com I bought my car there. They have more cars than any other website. You can work the search engine so many ways. You can search for any make, any model, priced under $3,000, under 125,000 miles, private sellers only. Do lots of searches. Just save your searches and check back once a week to see if anything new popped up. Don't buy the first car you see. But when the right deal comes along, don't wait too long to pull the trigger.

Buy a 95-98 Subaru legacy or Imprezza 2.2L It HAS to be a 2.2L NOT a 2.5L The subaru 2.2L boxer engine is bullet proof. I own one myself plus pending were you live the AWD comes in handy during the winter months.

For reference the reason to stay away from the 2.5L is the Headgasket issues IF the headgasket has been replaced then the 2.5L is okay (headgasket job will cost you another 2K)

Another safe choice is a honda accord with under 200xxx milage but watch for electrical stuff wearing out (power windows etc)