A high horsepower awd car is a lot easier to drive than a rwd car like the S2000. If you get an S, make sure you respect it because no one just learning to drive is an expert regardless of what they may think.

 

Don't buy based on which car is "faster". Speed isn't the only factor in a "good" car. However, at age 16, I would urge you to go with a car that's not quite as expensive, just because you're a new driver. It's a a fact that a lot teens have an accident within their first year or so of driving, and hell, you wouldn't want to subject an M3 or an S to that! If I were in your shoes, I'd buy something a bit older/less expensive (maybe an integra GSR or a 5th gen prelude) and then sell it in a year after you've gotten the hang of driving on the streets, in traffic and such. Hell, if you got something like a prelude or a GSR, you'd still have a nice and quick car with some value to it once you decided to sell.

Only my 2 cents though. If you were stuck on the idea of getting one of these, I'd go with the 350z as a first car. It's the cheapest, it doesn't stick out too much (young drivesr+sports cars= lots of tickets), and it's got plenty of upgrade potential.

 

Interesting comments from everyone and I have to agree that you should park your rear in something not so "fast". Statistics show younger drivers are easily involved in more accidents than any other age group.

Lecture, lecture, lecture but seriously consider the use of the vehicle and how much it will cost you to replace parts, service, etc. I'm already thinking unless your finanically stable the M3 is out (insurance and speeding tickets will cost you a fortune).

350Z is cool but not nearly as cool as an S2000.

If I were 16 I'd be finding myself something a little less hotted up. Progression is key so start small and you'll appreciate the S later on.

And remember REAL racing drivers stick to the track! Street racing is just stupid - don't let anyone egg you on.

Jetpilot