With a budget of $5000 - $7500, which car?

It’s a commuter car. If you are lucky, you might find gas for about $2.59/gallon of 87 octane. I’d consider a 2002-2004 Honda Civic. This stuff about FWD or RWD is silly. You’ll never know the difference in commuter traffic. The Honda with an automatic transmission will get 26/35 MPG, while the Crown Victoria will get 16/23 MPG. If you just look at highway mileage because of your commute, you will spend an extra $1000 per year just for commuting - over 50% more. I’d also consider a shorter commute, especially while you are temporarily at Ft. Belvoir. Once your office moves to MD, move to Howard or Carroll Counties. They are much closer and fabulous places to raise your children.