Which Film Camera is a better buy?

Both are $100; A mint condition Nikon FE with 1 lens, or a used Pentax K1000 with 3 lenses. I've recently become interested in film, but can't decide which is a better first buy. I have very little experience, so I'd use one to learn the basics of photography.

Its hard to advise on 'hearsay' though the K1000 sounds to be the better value because it has 3 lenses, the K1000 is a good camera and enjoyable to use, fun and competent, great for learning the basics of photography… I wouldn't mind shooting of a few rolls of film on a K1000 myself and there are a few more like me among the 'contributors' on here.

I'd go for the K1000… Enjoy!

Well let's see the Nikon has the better name and reputation. But on the other hand Pentax is no slouch (hope I spelled that so it is understood!). Within the last two years I purchased a Pentax Kx digital and I could not be happier. I just purchased a 100mm macro lens from the film era that fits and has an auto vs manual lens (not all Pentax lenses do). I saved a bundle compared to the new price of $850.00.
You can't do that with Nikon or Canon. Especially since the camera stabilization is built-in to the camera body rather than each lens.
SO why did I just go through all this writing/talking. Simple when you decide that you want a digital DSLR, your lens collection WILL no doubt fit your new digital camera!

The Pentax is manual only, the batteries just power the TTL meter, the Nikon is Aperture Priority and manual with a single mechanical shutter speed.

Having used both, I prefer the Pentax (it'd be a much harder decision if the Nikon were an FM), and actually use its big brother, the KX, but either will do the job. I just like mechanical cameras.

Certainly, the extra lenses with the Pentax are an excellent sweetener, and the skills you'll develop using an all-manual SLR will stand you in good stead later - it may be the best decision you'll ever make.

K1000.It's a favorite among film photography students.