Thread: Little Brothers First Car

My little brother just turn 17 a few months ago, hes been working hard, saving his money and has around $7,500 saved for the car (his savings are more, he just doesn't want to use it all on a car). The difference is going be covered by my dad, but he wants to keep it under $12,000 after taxes, dealer fees, registration. Right now the difficulty is figuring out which car to get him, because there are a few angles; first is, everyone in the family has been in an accident with their first car, older brother got hit by a lady who ran a red light, I was backing out of a parking spot, etc (we are not careless people, but accidents happen) so their is no point to buy him a new car or a nice car till he gets his accident out of the way or just becomes comfortable with driving and can show appreciation for the vehicle. The second angle is he wants a cool car, but the reality is he needs a reliable, safe, and fuel efficient car. So the trades seem to be older model, but "cooler" car or new car, but not interesting.

For the past month he has been heavily leaning toward a Dodge Charger (like an 06-07) and hasn't really tried any other cars, even though he has been persuaded to look at better options. He is big, 6'4 200 pounds and can't really fit in a Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla (probably needs a generous mid-size or full size sedan). I think he would be better off with a Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, or a something along those lines. Can other members please weight in on some suggestions, recommendations of what they got their child or what they think is a good first vehicle.

Thanks

Acura TL is a good car around that price point

Thanks for the suggestion.

I did a quick eBay search and a 06 Acura is showing like an average re-sale value of $15K before all the other cost?

Accord Coupe?

Edit: Also agree with the Acura TL. TSX as well.

2nd the TSX vote. Mine is an '04 with 206300 miles on it and it has been generally flawless. It is not babied, and I make it a goal to hit 85 mph every time I hit the highway (2x a day, min).
Excellent car for sure, and a true import!

I don't think the TSX has reached that price point has it? As far as the TL, you can find them for around 12-14 but money talks. Show up with cash somewhere, don't act too interested, and if they won't budge then walk. Make sure you show them cash, they will call back if not stop you before you leave.

Originally Posted by vtiracing08

I don't think the TSX has reached that price point has it? As far as the TL, you can find them for around 12-14 but money talks. Show up with cash somewhere, don't act too interested, and if they won't budge then walk. Make sure you show them cash, they will call back if not stop you before you leave.

I think one can be found. He didn't say anything about mileage or location, so I just chose all locations and 70k miles or less:

Used Acura TSX - in 80203 Area - on Cars.com

Acura TSX is a cool car, I almost got one way back when. I always liked the almost luxury and comfort of the TL whereas the TSX is smaller, more sporty. Either way he can't go wrong as they are pretty reliable.

not a kool car, but for about $10 000 you can buy a 2009-2010 Mitsubishi Gallant with to no miles, i love mine and one of the reasons is its has the stiffest frame in its class rides very flat

02-04 7 series with 100k miles.