Buying a first car is a major milestone, a rite of passage that every car enthusiast eagerly anticipates. For many, getting that first set of wheels symbolizes freedom and independence, often ranking higher in importance than other teenage milestones. The pressure to choose the right first car can be immense. We received a message from Mike, a reader whose son is turning sixteen and needs guidance navigating today’s used car market to find the perfect first vehicle.
“Hello David, Jason and the rest of the team at cars.edu.vn. I’ve been a long-time reader. My son is about to turn sixteen, and we’re saving to help him buy his first car in this inflated market. He’s car-obsessed and has been saving for years, even selling his drum set and bike. His passion for cars has been a positive influence, keeping him focused and out of trouble. He wants to study engineering and work in the auto industry. We fully support his passion. He’s looking for recommendations for a fun car for a car-obsessed soon-to-be sixteen-year-old boy.”
Mike’s son has a budget of $12,000 and specific criteria: a manual transmission is a must, and he desires a car with that special “fizz factor.” He also wants something cool and suitable for autocrossing. Parents, of course, have their own priorities. The car needs to be safe, with features like side airbags and stability control. Insurance costs must be reasonable, ruling out high-performance or notoriously expensive-to-insure models. Reliability is also crucial; the first car needs to be functional and dependable.
Fortunately, these criteria align perfectly with the kind of cars enthusiasts love. If you’re asking “What Is The Best First Car?”, here are six excellent enthusiast vehicles under $12,000 that balance fun, safety, and practicality.
Mazda MX-5 NC: A Classic Roadster Experience
The Mazda MX-5 NC, produced from 2006 to 2015, offers a fantastic entry point into the world of sports cars. While some might overlook it in favor of earlier Miatas, the NC is a surprisingly capable and modern roadster, making it a great first car for young enthusiasts.
Why the MX-5 NC is a Great First Car:
- Fun Factor: The MX-5 is renowned for its balanced handling and engaging driving dynamics. The two-liter inline-four engine provides ample power for spirited driving, and the available five- or six-speed manual gearbox enhances the connection between driver and machine.
- Reliability: The NC generation is known for its reliability, suffering from fewer issues compared to older sports cars. This is crucial for a first car, minimizing unexpected repairs and downtime.
- Modern Features: Compared to earlier Miatas, the NC offers modern conveniences like side airbags and available xenon headlights, improving safety and everyday usability.
- Autocross Ready: The MX-5 is a popular choice for autocross, and the NC is no exception. Its nimble handling and rear-wheel-drive layout make it a joy to drive on a course.
Things to Consider:
- Sporty Ride: The stock suspension is tuned for handling, which might be firmer than some are used to. Upgrading anti-roll bars can further enhance handling but consider the impact on autocross classing if competitive events are a goal.
- Maintenance: Like any used car, some maintenance will be required. Plastic coolant reservoirs might need replacement due to age.
- Optional Upgrades: For enhanced driving enjoyment, look for models with the six-speed manual and limited-slip differential. A roll bar is also a worthwhile safety upgrade, especially for autocrossing.
The Mazda MX-5 NC is a safe bet for a first car, combining low running costs with a fun, slow-car-fast driving experience. It’s an excellent way for a young driver to learn about car control and enjoy the thrill of open-top motoring.
Subaru BRZ: More Space and Performance
If you’re looking for a step up in space and performance from the MX-5, the Subaru BRZ (and its twin, the Scion FR-S) is an excellent choice. These coupes, produced from 2013 to 2020, offer sports car thrills with everyday usability, making them ideal first cars for those wanting more practicality without sacrificing fun.
Why the Subaru BRZ is a Great First Car:
- Enhanced Performance: The BRZ offers more power and a more refined chassis compared to the MX-5 NC. The 200-horsepower two-liter boxer engine provides exciting performance, and the six-speed manual transmission is a joy to use.
- Practicality: The BRZ offers seating for four (though rear seats are small) and a usable trunk, making it more practical for daily driving than a dedicated roadster.
- Engaging Driving Dynamics: The BRZ is known for its sharp handling and communicative chassis. It’s a more serious driver’s car than the MX-5, rewarding skillful driving and making autocrossing highly enjoyable.
- Safety: The BRZ earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, providing peace of mind for parents concerned about safety.
Things to Consider:
- Cabin Noise: The BRZ can be noisy inside, with noticeable road and engine noise. This is part of its sporty character but might be less comfortable for long highway drives.
- Potential Issues: Early models had a valve spring recall, and throw-out bearings can be fragile. Pre-purchase inspections are recommended.
- Model Recommendation: Opt for the Subaru BRZ over the Scion FR-S due to potential dealership familiarity with Subaru engine maintenance, especially regarding the valve spring recall.
The Subaru BRZ is a fantastic first car for young drivers who want a sporty, engaging coupe that’s still practical enough for everyday use. It’s a car that can grow with a driver’s skills, from daily commutes to weekend autocross events.
Chevrolet Cobalt SS Turbocharged: The Sleeper Performance Bargain
For those seeking raw performance on a budget, the Chevrolet Cobalt SS Turbocharged (2008-2010) is a surprising and often overlooked option. This unassuming compact car packs a serious punch, offering performance that rivals much more expensive vehicles.
Why the Cobalt SS Turbocharged is a Great First Car (for the Performance-Oriented):
- Incredible Performance: The turbocharged two-liter engine delivers 260 horsepower, launching the Cobalt SS to 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds. It’s surprisingly quick and capable on both the street and the track.
- Track Proven: The Cobalt SS Turbocharged has impressive track credentials, outperforming cars like the Mitsubishi Evo VII and Porsche Cayman S around the Nürburgring Nordschleife.
- Affordable Performance: For the level of performance offered, the Cobalt SS Turbocharged is an absolute bargain on the used market.
- Autocross Potential: Its strong engine, well-tuned suspension, and optional limited-slip differential make it a competitive autocross car.
Things to Consider:
- Refinement: The Cobalt is still a Cobalt. The interior is basic, and the shifter isn’t the most refined. It prioritizes performance over luxury.
- Availability: Turbocharged models can be harder to find than naturally aspirated Cobalts.
- Condition: Finding one that hasn’t been abused is crucial. Thorough inspection is essential.
- Safety: While safety ratings are decent, they are not as high as some other cars on this list.
The Chevrolet Cobalt SS Turbocharged is a left-field choice for a first car, but for the young driver who prioritizes performance above all else and is willing to overlook some rough edges, it’s an incredibly rewarding and affordable option.
Volvo C30 T5: Scandinavian Style and Turbo Power
If you’re looking for something a bit different, the Volvo C30 T5 (2008-2013) offers a unique blend of Scandinavian style, turbocharged performance, and Volvo’s renowned safety. It’s a stylish and practical hatchback that stands out from the crowd.
Why the Volvo C30 T5 is a Great First Car:
- Unique Style: The C30’s distinctive styling, especially the rear end inspired by the 1800ES, makes it a visually appealing and individualistic choice.
- Turbocharged Performance: The 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine provides smooth and ample power, making it fun to drive in various conditions.
- Comfort and Features: Being a Volvo, the C30 often comes well-equipped with features like premium sound systems, heated seats, and safety features.
- Safety: The C30 earned a Top Safety Pick rating, reflecting Volvo’s commitment to safety.
- European Driving Feel: Based on the Ford Focus platform, the C30 offers a composed chassis, well-weighted steering, and a comfortable yet controlled ride.
Things to Consider:
- Maintenance (Potentially): While generally reliable, European cars can sometimes have higher maintenance costs compared to Japanese brands.
- Autocross Class: The C30 is classified in H Street for autocross, which might be less competitive than classes for some other cars on this list.
- Less Engaging than GTI (Potentially): While fun to drive, some might find it slightly less engaging than the benchmark Volkswagen GTI.
The Volvo C30 T5 is an excellent first car for those who appreciate unique styling, comfortable features, and a touch of European flair. It’s a safe, practical, and enjoyable hatchback that offers something different from the typical first car choices.
Infiniti G35: Japanese Performance Sedan/Coupe Value
The Infiniti G35 (Coupe: 2003-2007, Sedan: 2003-2006) was a game-changer when it was released, offering near-luxury performance at a competitive price. It’s essentially a Nissan Skyline for the US market, providing a sporty and engaging driving experience.
Why the Infiniti G35 is a Great First Car:
- Performance and Value: The G35 offers strong V6 power (260-298 horsepower) for the price, significantly more than comparable European cars of the time.
- Engaging to Drive: Available with a six-speed manual transmission, the G35 is fun to drive, with well-weighted steering and a pedal box suited for heel-toe shifting.
- Reliability (Generally): The VQ35DE engine is known for its durability, though oil consumption can be a concern.
- Safety Features: The G35 comes with stability control and a full complement of airbags, providing good safety for a first car.
Things to Consider:
- Fuel Economy: Fuel economy is not a strong point, averaging around 20 MPG combined.
- Refinement: The G35 is not the most refined car, with noticeable noise, vibration, and harshness, especially on the highway. Interior materials can also be subpar in places.
- Potential Issues: Oil consumption, worn front suspension bushings, and occasional radio/climate control failures are known issues.
The Infiniti G35 is a solid choice for a first car if you’re looking for a sporty sedan or coupe with rear-wheel drive and available manual transmission. It offers a taste of performance and luxury without breaking the bank, making it a good value proposition.
BMW 128i: The Exceptionally Reliable BMW
While BMW might not immediately come to mind when thinking of reliable first cars, the BMW 128i (2008-2013) powered by the N52 inline-six engine is a notable exception. It offers the classic BMW driving experience with surprising reliability, making it a compelling choice.
Why the BMW 128i is a Great First Car:
- BMW Driving Experience: The 128i delivers the quintessential BMW driving feel – excellent steering, balanced chassis, and a smooth, powerful inline-six engine.
- Reliability (for a BMW): The N52 engine is known for its relative reliability compared to other BMW engines. Common issues are relatively minor and easily addressed.
- Refinement and Comfort: The 128i is surprisingly refined and comfortable, making it suitable for both daily driving and longer trips.
- Autocross Capability: Despite its comfort, the 128i is still a capable autocross car, offering a good balance of handling and usability.
Things to Consider:
- Maintenance (BMW): While more reliable than some BMWs, maintenance costs can still be higher than Japanese brands.
- Specific Issues: Electric water pump failure is a known issue around 60,000-100,000 miles, and some minor gasket leaks may occur. VANOS bolt recall should be checked for certain models.
- IIHS Safety Rating: The 128i was not rated by IIHS.
The BMW 128i is a fantastic first car for those who appreciate the BMW driving experience and are willing to do some preventative maintenance. It’s a well-rounded car that offers a blend of performance, comfort, and surprising reliability in the BMW package.
Conclusion: Finding the Best First Car for You
Choosing the best first car involves balancing several factors: fun, safety, reliability, and budget. These six enthusiast cars under $12,000 represent excellent options for young drivers. From the nimble Mazda MX-5 to the practical Subaru BRZ, the powerful Cobalt SS, the stylish Volvo C30, the value-packed Infiniti G35, and the surprisingly reliable BMW 128i, there’s a car on this list to suit different tastes and priorities.
Ultimately, the “best” first car is the one that excites the young driver while providing a safe and reliable experience. Exploring these options is a great starting point in the journey of car ownership and automotive enthusiasm. Consider these recommendations, do your research, and find the perfect first ride to start your automotive adventures.
(Photo credits: Mazda, Subaru, Chevrolet, Volvo, Infiniti, BMW)
