For working on cars my minimum list is:
1. Haynes or other manual
2. Ramps, floor jack, jackstands - bottle jacks are OK but can be a pain
3. A good set of Craftsman or better tools including TORX tips and a toolbox
4. 1/2" drive torque wrench and 1/2" to 3/8" socket adapter
5. Oil filter wrench, funnel and drain pan.
6. A minimum 6" plastic caliper for measuring bolts, hozes, pipes, holes, etc. (It helps when you need to determine what size wrench you need to go and buy)
7. Spark plug adjusting tool
8. Air pressure gauge for tires
9. Pressure Brake Bleeder and brake tool (from IPD or others)
10. A mulitmeter that measures voltage and ohms


With the above tools, and a few more you will find you need, you can do almost anything to your car that can be done at home.

For tools you might want to check for Sears Craftsman mechanics tool sets on EBAY. There was a 266(?) piece set for about $100. My first set was a $99.99 set from Sears.
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Nathan Valles, Black 855R, MBC, tint, strut brace, RE 730's