[deathpunk dan]

Emillion-

I can relate. When I was 19, I was obsessed with VWs. I had a 91 GTI and at 20 bought a VW Corrado. But I was in college and getting the Corrado was a bad idea. I went from a simple 8v golf with excellent fuel economy, that was fun to drive, practical and inexpensive to own, to the (infamous) Corrado. I spent thousands of dollars on the C over the next few years, dealing with everything from classic VW electrical issues to a complete engine rebuild and beyond...this is outside of the inevitable mod bug. But I loved that car.

Looking back, I should have kept that sweet basic GTI. Financially, I would have been in a vastly better place. The time and energy the Corrado took up could and should have been spent on more productive experiences and things.

There's nothing wrong with being a car nut. I am. But don't let a car prevent you from doing other things, know what I mean? I say this because a Porsche 911 of any vintage seriously has the potential to do this to you at this time in your life. The cost of insurance alone may be a stumbling block (have you checked?); never mind maintenance $ beyond typical DIY stuff.

You've got $4k saved towards this car. This is awesome - very few 19 year olds have a dime to their name. But here's the thing - lets say you do manage to get a loan for the other $15-20k to buy the car. Are you going to be able to swing not only the car payment but also set aside additional money for maintenance and mods? And the ins premiums? Add it up - that's a ton of money on a monthly basis. Can you hold off for 5+ years? Put that money away for a few years, focus on you (your job/career, savings etc) and you will be a far better place to pull the trigger on a 911.

Still want a porsche right now? How about a nice 944 or 924S? A beater 944 will be a nightmare, a well maintained one a great classic sports car.

A non beat-to-death early Subaru WRX would certainly fit the bill if you want to go fast with AWD.

Just my 2 cents.