Personal Finance Buzz

Buying a new car is a big deal, especially when it is your first.  In 2002, when I was 17, my parents bought me a beat up black 1999 Grand Prix that I absolutely loved.  I put that puppy through a lot and it was passed down to both my younger brothers before making its way back to me.  This past summer, my beautiful baby died — about a year earlier than I hoped and left me stranded.

I have no debt and despite the preaching of many to never by a new car, I felt it was the right...