A 1990s Jeep Cherokee. First, it's a Jeep. Second, it has the indestructible 4.0L. Third, it is very reliable. Fourth, it is great in winter. And Fifth, they're fun to 4-wheel. Here's my Cherokee: And here's my first "car", not usually a good choice. Unless you're a gearhead up for a challenge: Please don't think I'm trying to brag or show off, I just want to give my opinion and share my experiences. Thanks!
Everyone is suggesting fullsize cars and even pickup trucks... and the last thing I want is some kid f@#king up my car because he doesn't have enough skills and experience to squeeze his 5 and a half meters long land barge into a parking spot without hitting anything.
I can imagine your car getting hit by a land yacht being driven by a teenager. OT: i'd say car's like a 1980's GM Squarebody pickup or a Datsun 240/60/80Z. --- Post updated --- That list looks innacurate. -No peasants could ever afford those (except for the BMW 328XI) -Alot of them would've been dented by idiotic first time teenagers once its out of the lot.
reason why i said that is a pickup with those options would go between $500 and $2500 and it leaves you with some cash for some things to put on it.
First car for teen, let's see: I myself had '89 Toyota Corolla hatchback as my first car, 1.3 engine with 12 valves. So I suggest of getting something cheap, so it can take up some beating in the first years of learning and would be cheap to repair as well. Second thing what I must has to have is manual gearbox. Everyone should learn to drive with those from the start, since after that, driving with other gearboxes isn't difficult. But of course, having budget of 5k and in America, things are different over there. Maybe Honda Civic would be good choise ? At least it not only look decent, it's cheap to maintain and will take up some beating and you won't be too mad, if it bets few bumps here and there.
Get a old Volvo. Its safe, reliable, and very spacious. If you are short on cash, you could rent the trunk on weekends for a family of 4. Or if you go camping, no need for a tent. Also insurance companies like them, and your parents will say "Thats a safe car". --- Post updated --- Get a volvo station wagon. Dont be that dumb to get a pickup. Specially a used one.
You say you want a eclipse I would recommend a G1 or G2 Eclipse since the G3 & G4 are shit. I havnt driven a Lincoln or Cadillac from the 70's but I wouldnt recommend it since there quite big and have a terrible turning circle so learners would have problems with parking and turning. Chevrolet Suburban/Blazer G1 or G2 Mitsubishi Eclipse VW Golf Volvo 240 Honda Accord Mazda MX-5 Nissan S12-S15
