Okay, I'm almost 17 and my parents have presented me with two choices. The first would be that I'd get my mom's 1999 Honda Accord (EX, 4 cylinder, leather interior, alloy wheels) for $2,000 (significantly less than it's worth) and she would get a new car. The second option would be to get a used car, and I'm shooting for one of these.

I've found two that I like.

http://tinyurl.com/2m9of8
http://tinyurl.com/3arvlk

The second one obviously has some issues (fuel pump, brake lights, paint), but is a post-85.5 944 and has just 62k miles. I expect that I could get it in shape for about the same price as the first car I listed.

And now I have a couple questions:
1. I'm a learn-as-I-go kind of person. My mechanical knowledge is rather limited, but I learn quickly and follow instructions well. Would you suggest that I go for a car that is a bit more maintenance free than a Porsche?
2. If you think I might be alright, which of the two listed 944s would you buy?
3. How much would insurance cost in relation to the Honda Accord? Note that I live in Massachusetts, and we have some strange insurance laws.

 

Here are my thoughts.

I would never suggest anyone buy a used Porsche until they are on their feet and earning a good income. When I say this, I mean, out of college and have a steady job/paycheck. Just because you can buy the car for $4k, doesn't mean you can afford it. They can be very expensive to maintain, and they are 20 years old....you will always be fixing something on it, especially if it is your only car. When you are at the age where you are leaving high school, and possibly going on to college, or trade school, etc.. A: You need a reliable vehicle. A 20 year old car is not classified as a reliable vehicle and B: You have better things to spend your money on than trying to keep up with a 20 year old car that always needs something. The general consesus is plan on about $1k a year in maintenance, doing the work yourself.

If it were me, I'd take the honda, get a couple years down the road and established, then pick up a 944 as a second vehicle as you can afford it. Notice I said....as a second vehicle, lol. It's nice when you need to repair something, that you have other means of transportation. Keep in mind, parts are not available at your local napa store if it breaks down, usually you have to order them online, and it takes a few days.

 

That is very good advice. The Honda will last for along time if YOU take care of it, andyou know the history of the honda. There will always be 944s for sale.

Neal