In my viewpoint, the ideal car for a 16 year old is one that costs less than $3000.

 

Not in VA

 

After thinking about it last night, giving a kid a car in that good of shape would only kill me. Everyday seeing that car get in the same shape as her room would depress me.

 

While I understand the argument, I wouldn't say it's worthless. There are certain tax and insurance benefits to being officially married.

 

Marriage tax penalty reinstated 1/1/2011.

 

Back to the OP's Q, I was in a similar spot - had a paid off my gem-like 2006 Honda Accord V6 EXL that was going to become my daughter's when she turned 16 in 6 more years (and would have had 150,000 miles, just broken in!). However, the 2011 GT changed all that. I simply HAD to have it, and that meant letting the Accord go (was still worth $14k), such that the GT is now my DD (daily driver).

Even tho our winters are sort of mild here, I plan to get some kind of beater this fall to get thru the winter. I just can't see subjecting my GT to winter roads, with all the crap that gets sprayed onto your car. I am thinking about a 1991-1995 Civic (had 5 Civics, that was my favorite gen).

In Summary: you will probably not abandon your desire for a beater (car, not wife), but just get the GT, enjoy it now, and then solve the beater problem later this year. DOn't worry, be happy!