Just got my licence, was wondering what would be a good first car?

The bad part is, I only have a $3,000 limit, I can save up more. But I live 25 miles outside of town, so I need a car to get to work. Based on the fact I live 25 miles outside of town, I would like something with good mpg. Every car I've been able to find has a stick shift, salvage title, or 200K+ miles. I'm just stuck on what I should be looking for. I don't want one of the beat up Honda civics that somebody lowered. And if possible, I was thinking about looking for a 68-73 Nova. But I doubt I'll find one running for that price.

Any ideas?

1998 and up crown vic. Most have low mileage. Insurance will be cheap. You can seat 5 people with NO room complaints. Big trunk and gas mileage is great on highway ok in town. Stay away from former police cars because they are beaten to hell.