I'm looking for a beater vehicle up to $2,000 as long it runs and your opinions on those as everyday driving:
1999 Dodge Durango 183k miles for $1,200
1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee 200k miles for $1,500
2005 Ford Explorer 240k miles for $1,500 (Drives but doesn't go on reverse)
2003 Mercury Grand Marquis 250k miles for $1,800
Are they worth buying at that price range or save more for something better?
keep saving up.
Beaters are not daily drivers
At that price point, condition and maintenance history are more important than make and model. It all depends on the individual vehicle.
2003 Mercury Grand Marquis 250k miles for $1,800
The only one I may recommend is the Mercury, if a mechanic checks it out and says it's still OK. $1,800 is too much for an antiquated full-size car.
Are they worth buying at that price range or save more for something better?
None of thees, the Mercury could have been decent if it had about 100k less miles.
Any Japanese options?
Perhaps a Pontiac Vibe?