First car suggestions?

So I just got my license, yadda yadda, now I need a car. My price range is <$5000. I want a manual transmission just so I can learn how to drive stick, and it looks fun, also later on if I decide to mod my car(nothing rice and disgusting though), I won't look like a tard by modding an automatic. Any suggestions? I want something that's faster than your average car stock, but not like insane since I'm just a beginner. I've been looking at Mazda MX-3s, mx-6s, Del Sols...also 3000gts, 300zx, and early 90s MR2s, but I highly doubt anyone would suggest those as first cars. 300zx are badass as hell though :lol:

300zx are very badass. but are you looking for the twinturbo 300ZX or the base. also for the 3000GT. VR-4 or base? bc i am having the same problem and im having problems lookn for the same kinda cars your lookn for.

I would just get a small civic hatchback. Civics have one of the biggest aftermarkets out there and being a light car means it won't need too much to get going. even better if you lighten it more.

I would just get a small civic hatchback. Civics have one of the biggest aftermarkets out there and being a light car means it won't need too much to get going. even better if you lighten it more.

:1:

And why would you look like a tard modifying an auto?

Cause I don't want to be grouped in the same category as some of these ricers with automatics who've done like no engine work or anything performance wise to their car, just stupid bodykits and 4 ft high spoilers and fart cannons on the back of their cars.

If you upgrade the performance, you won't look like a tard, regardless of transmission (manual is better though).