Nanaimo is supposed to be the used car mecca of the Island. I bought two cars there for less than 5g's each. They were both 2004 models.
If you know someone who is into cars and likes auctions, my friends dad got an almost brand new Mercedes for $5,000!!!!!
I have also heard of "car finders". For a small fee they will help you narrow down your choices using your specifications. I think some will even go so far as to visit the buyer and take the car on a test drive for you.
Good luck!