[The Donkey]

I would have to agree with Rick V. If I am putting my daughters in a car I couldn't care less about looks or performance or resale, etc. It all comes down to what vehicle allows them to survive an accident with the best chance. Odds are a 16+ year old will be in a wreck. I don't care about the reliability no matter the cost to me. I haven't done the research but I am thinking Volvo or big SUV. Used, New, no matter. Whatever fits the budget. I do think that all or most of the German cars are pretty safe though. The 2 wrecks I have been in were in an Audi 5000 and an 85 Porsche 911 and I probably shouldn't have been around after either accident. I probably wouldn't put one of my kids in either car though as a starter vehicle.

This really is a tough question though and deserves good discussion. Good topic.

If it was up to me, right now, and my girls were turning 16, I would opt for Volvo wagon, BMW 5 series sedan (97-03) or similar Audi. I just don't know enough about the safety of the american SUV's. I do know that some of the Ford's and GM's up to 03 were crumple zone nightmares for the occupants. After that I think the SUV's were safer and received good ratings.