Yes, it was tough. For many buyers, finding a car around ₦1 million today feels almost impossible. But not for 234Drive.
Crank and our market watchers had to search almost anywhere and everywhere — digging through listings, dealer corners, and forgotten parking spots to find realistic options in this range.
Now let’s be honest. At this price point, you’re not exactly shopping for “like new”. You’re shopping for what we’ll respectfully call… classics. Some come with character. Some come with history. Most come with a few things you’ll need to fix.
Still, mobility is possible. We found vehicles that genuinely sit within the ₦1 million to ₦2 million bracket. Just remember: careful inspection and a repair budget are not optional — they’re part of the deal.
Audi 80 (1996)
If you want old-school German engineering on a tight budget, the Audi 80 shows up around ₦1.2 million.
The interior on some units still looks decent, but body parts and trim can be hard to find. This car suits someone who enjoys restoring cars or simply wants an affordable German badge.
Best for: Brand lovers and project builds.
Toyota Corolla (Mid-1980s)
The boxy Corolla from the 80s still pops up in listings around ₦1.35 million.
The condition varies a lot, but one thing works in its favor: Toyota parts are everywhere in Nigeria. If you maintain it properly, it can still serve as reliable daily transport.
Best for: Buyers who want simplicity and durability.
Nissan Primera (1999)
You still see the Primera running as taxis in many cities — and that tells you something about its toughness.
Listings usually sit between ₦1.45 million and ₦1.7 million. It’s not flashy, but it handles rough conditions well.
Best for: Budget buyers who need a dependable work car.
Nissan Sentra (Early 2000s)
The Sentra strikes a balance between affordability and practicality. It comes with a 1.8-liter engine that most local mechanics understand.
You can find units around ₦1.5 million, while cleaner ones go closer to ₦1.8 million.
Best for: First-time buyers who want something manageable and easy to maintain.
Toyota Corolla (1999)
This generation of Corolla built its reputation on durability and fuel efficiency.
You’ll see listings around ₦1.6 million. You might need to fix cosmetics, but the engine platform is proven and reliable.
Best for: Practical owners thinking long-term.
BMW E30 3 Series
The E30 has cult status among enthusiasts.
You can find it between ₦1 million and ₦1.5 million, making it one of the cheapest ways to own a classic BMW locally. But most units need serious attention.
Best for: Enthusiasts who want a restoration project.
Toyota Camry V20 (1986–1992)
This older Camry earns praise for durability and solid build quality.
Prices range between ₦1.6 million and ₦1.7 million. Its simple mechanical setup makes repairs easier compared to newer cars.
Best for: Buyers who value reliability over modern features.
Volkswagen Jetta / Passat (Early 1990s)
You still see these Volkswagens on highways and long-distance routes.
At around ₦1.5 million, they offer an affordable way into European sedans. But condition matters a lot — maintenance history is everything.
Best for: Buyers willing to invest in refurbishment.
Mazda 323 (2002)
The Mazda 323 looks more modern than most cars in this price bracket.
Listings typically fall between ₦1.7 million and ₦1.8 million. When properly maintained, it handles daily driving well.
Best for: Buyers who want a newer design without stretching their budget too far.
Hyundai i10 (2012)
The Hyundai i10 stands out as the newest car on this list.
Although most units cost more, you’ll occasionally see some below ₦2 million due to condition or repair needs. It’s fuel-efficient and easy to drive in city traffic.
Just don’t skip inspection.
Best for: Urban drivers who want low fuel consumption.
What You Should Do Before Buying
At this price level, you don’t just “buy a car.” You investigate it.
Before you pay, make sure you:
- Inspect the car thoroughly with a trusted mechanic
- Run a diagnostic scan
- Confirm proper documentation and ownership
- Budget extra money for repairs
- Check that spare parts are available
Buying cheap doesn’t mean owning cheap. A poorly inspected car can quickly become expensive.
Yes, the Nigerian used-car market is tough. Yes, ₦1 million won’t buy perfection. But it can still buy mobility. If you inspect carefully, choose wisely, and budget for repairs, these cars can serve as realistic entry points into car ownership. The key isn’t just finding a cheap car — it’s finding the right cheap car.
