First thing is first. I am 18 years old. One day when I was a freshman, I said, "I'm going to buy an Aston Martin while I'm in high school." It's a crazy idea, impractical, and probably not wise. No one ever believed me when I said it would happen, and I don't blame them. Yet, it seems like people these days don't have the motivation to fulfill their dreams.

In a week, I'll be starting a new job that'll earn me $35k/year, with potential to reach over $100k/year with commission. School is paid for. I've longed to own an Aston Martin V8 Vantage or DB9. I can afford a car as high as about $75k. Would purchasing an Aston Martin be an absolutely terrible idea? It's been something that means a lot to me so I hope to make it come true. Which is more reliable? FYI, I know Miata's get a lot of criticism, but my dad's engine-swapped MX-5 is a joy to drive. Given that information, would that sway your opinion?

I'm new to this stuff. I know a good bit about cars, but in terms of maintenance/insurance regarding Astons specifically not as much.

Let me know. I welcome all input! Thank you.

 

Research insurance quotes.
Then research how much big maintenance such as clutch, brakes, etc is.
Then research how much depreciation is.
Then research gas mileage.
Then research regular maintenance cost.

Just because you can potentially afford to buy a car doesn't mean that you can afford the upkeep. 100k/yr could work but it depends on your expenses.

Definitely shoot for your dream but don't throw caution to the wind.

Test drive! Not only Astons but comparable cars. What do you like about Aston? The badge? The layout/configuration? The power? The design? The material quality? There's plenty of very good cheaper options out there. None offers just the same as Aston Martin, they're better in other aspects and worse in others.

 

If I were you I would wait. The opportunity will always be there, but there are some more prudent things you could do with your money right now.

Postponement of gratification is a great thing to learn. It will taste sweeter when you get it

 

It may be disappointing to hear, but this is an unwise decision. People who make $35k/year (and don't count on money that you "might" make as a bonus) should not be shopping for an Aston Martin. Do yourself a favor and start saving money for the future. You have plenty of time to fulfill this dream. When you have enough put away to buy several Astons, then buy the car, with cash.

If I were you, I'd stick with the MX5 idea for now. With a few mods it will be a blast to drive, and so much cheaper. This is what I drive on a daily basis and I love it. I also take it to the track about once a month.

 

Consider the reputation impact, you will be known as a little rich kid riding around in daddy's car. There is no way around that.

I would save the money, university/college may require extra cash that you have not planned. You just started a job, and can't factor in potential earnings just yet.

I got my Aston at 27, and none of my colleagues know about it.

 

It's your money, do what you gotta do! But, keep in mind that while you may pay 75k for the car used, it will need to be maintained like a 150k car that it is. This means basics like oil changes are 3-4x what a normal car costs. Tires, brakes, clutch and any real issues will cost more than you might be prepared to pay. Insurance is only a little more for an Aston than a similar priced 80k car. My 2014 audi rs5 is 100 cheaper to insure than the Aston. But still not cheap, costs about 1500 per year, and I am 44 with a good driving record.

 

I have never seen such good and kind comments for an 18-year old considering an Aston. So in summary, the recommendation is to Wait--and you'll be much happier if you do. Having a goal, like owning an Aston, is excellent for motivation--so maintain your goal, but relax and wait until you can pay cash for it. Your annual expenses for Upkeep and Insurance will be about the same as a monthly payment for an "Ordinary Car". The recommendation for an MX-5, to have a fun, sporty convertible is a perfect one for you--so consider it seriously. For your happiness: "When it comes to choices between 'Having' and 'Doing"--DOING wins hand's down every time", that's what memories are made of. So keep most of your earnings for doing--especially at your age--and don't get tied down to a big car payment

 

+1 Well said, as well as all the other advise. Good things come to him who waits. With your positive attitude about work and the future, they will come, but, don't stretch beyond your means until truly ready for the storms that also come. All the best.