I often see kids driving around in new cars, with new rims, and all sort of other expensive additions. I assume that their parents get those for them - so their kids can have a "reliable" car that will not break down.

In my opinion, I think all the kids out there who are starting out should get a "clunker". Something that runs good, is safe, but not high on frills. (no CD/no ac/nothing power) This way, the kids learn to take care of their cars. They learn to jump start a dead battery, they learn what "burning oil" smells like. This will help them to value and take good care of their cars instead of taking it for granted. And it also teaches them some basic automechanics. (changing their own oil, identifying problems, etc)

That's how I started out, and I owe it to those experiences that I probably have better driving habits now, and I definetly know more about cars.

For the record, my first car was a 1981 Mazda GLC, with a manual cranking moon roof!! (this was in 1993) My second car was a salvaged 1987 Honda Accord (1994 - 2001). My third vehicle (and first truck) was my X.

Just my 2 cents.