[Decolliber]

1957 Morris Minor (British racing black, with red vinyl interior), acquired from father in 1968. Fast, reliable and a real head turner. Lots of body roll in corners. It had those little lighted candle turn signals that popped out of the side, when they worked. Had to be junked in 1971 because chassis broke in half due to rust.
Next car was 1971 VW Beetle (a common first car for Pelicanheads); engine seized in Mohave desert, got towed 50 miles to Barstow and paid $350 for engine rebuild in 1977. There was only one VW mechanic in Barstow, so I learned a lesson about monopolistic markets.
Never bought a brand new car in my life. Cheap or wise, or maybe both.