The number 1 way to cut expenses for you would be to get a manual, a half case of redhook blonde, some quality tools and start doing some of these basic repairs yourself. your $300.00 alternator job is a $80.00 part and two hours time max. -including trip to parts house your $500.00 rear caliper job is $50.00 in parts and 1-3 hours time.-including beer run and lunch break. yor $500.00 clutch cylinder job is $50-60.00 for parts, 2-3 hours time investment. The 2002 would be a great initial car due to the beauty of simplicity. My six year old daughter has helped recently in several small repairs. Kids are amazing in their ability/willingness to learn. Put all your adult fears about mechanical complexity behind you, open your mind to think like a child.