[azenthusiast]

Another observation. You mentioned being able to "support your 'living'". Although it seems far away right now, college isn't too distant. Regardless of whether or not you get a scholarship (I got a large scholarship to the university I am attending), college is expensive. I was about ready to sign the papers on either a Scion tC or a Dodge Caliber about a year and a half ago. I am now extremely happy that I do not have that additional obligation, so I am able to rely on money I had saved for my basic living expenses and concentrate on my classes. Since it sounds like you take pride in being fiscally responsible, I think you would agree that spending around $20K on an unneeded luxury is a bad decision. If you can't find a good deal in the auto trader, I would go to some police/government auctions. I have seen some very good deals come out of those. Clean up the exterior (since you already have the knowledge from Autopia), buy a Chilton's, and learn to do some basic maintenance.