Buying a car off eBay? First car advice please!

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Hey what's up everyone,

Just about 17 here, and just starting to look into getting a used car for my first. My budget is in the range of $5,500 - $7,000. I may think about waiting a bit longer and save up some more cash to possibly get a car at the end of my price range.

What I've been looking into are Integras, Civics, or maybe an Eclipse. Are these the most popular choices for people in my situation? I want a sportyish car. Don't know all too much about cars, I love RSX's though, however they're way out of my range of course.. Recommendations, and any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Also about eBay, anyone bought off eBay, or anyone know in general if eBay has better deals than my local car dealers or classifieds? I know shipping a car would cost around $250 or so..

Any advice would be appreciated.. thanks.

Dan

[Rakshas]

300zx

Late 80's Porshes are good.

Trans am

ANy of thses are many times sportier than a civic or integras. The eclipse is slighly sportier but I believe thses are better than that as well. Most integras and civics are not fast at all. They are riced.

[TorinoGT69]

Shipping is more like $1000-$1500 on a car.

[genjy]

A 17 year old with a $7000 budget probably couldn't afford to maintain and repair an old Porsche, even if he could afford to buy the car itself.

Private parties usually sell Ford Focus ZX3s at about $6000 to $7000, just avoid the 2000 model, that's the famous one with loads of recalls.

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Thanks for the recommendations, I'm looking into more cars now including the focus.

But one other question.. Are Honda Preludes generally considered more of a performance car than for example an integra, civic, etc? What about the eclipse?

I'm also surprised at the amount these companies charge you to ship a car.. wow, 1-1.5k.