Hello, I am a new to the site and was hoping if I could ask for some opinions on my current situation. I am looking for my first car. I am a third year med school student who has lived in NYC and never needed a car before now. I have been looking at the TC since I first read about it earlier this year. I haven't gotten a chance to test drive it either since none of the dealers I went to even had one on the floor, they quoted the waiting period around 6-8 weeks. My question is that if I should spend the 18k on a new car since I haven't had too much experience driving (I would be getting a stick), or should I spend about 8k on used Acura Integra (stick), learn it and then get the TC in a couple of years when all the bugs have been worked out? The money I would use is student loan money so I am also little reluctant to pay 18k for a brand new car even though I think it's the best thing for the money right now. All help is appreciated. Thanks.

 

get on the waiting list

 

If you live in NYC, just be prepared to pay at least $3200/yr for insurance if this is your first car and you're over 25 with a perfect record. Try to learn stick on an old car first if you want to get a manual. What dealers have you tried contacting? Did you speak to Star Scion in Bayside or Bay Ridge Scion in Brooklyn?

 

I would get a nice quality used acura. An integra is a wonderful car that is easy to have serviced, easy to get parts for, and super reliable.

 

Sup, thanks for replying. No I haven't tried those two dealerships. I tried one in Manhattan and one in Queens. 3200 per year? Wholly crap. Does that matter if I own the car or not? I am probably going to pay it out right, not finance or lease. You know how much it would be for a 99 Integra? I am 25 , had my license since 18, and no records. But since I never own a car, I am feeling I am going to get it either way.

 

I also had my license since I was 18, but if there is no record of any previous coverage, you will be treated as a new driver (and the age 25 break wont help too much). Try to put the car's name in your parents if they drive. Since you're paying the car in full, you can get away with just liability coverage in NY. (Full coverage is mandatory if you are leasing or financing a new car). Goto geico.com or those other online sites and see what they quote you.

 

Get the used Integra. Used is always a better value. I would be very conservative with your money especially if you're spending student loan money on this. A used Integra or Accord coupe or the like will serve you well and cost you less to buy and insure. If you're in med school, there will be plenty of time (and money) later to buy yourself a new car and you won't be limited to a Scion either.