My first car was a 1985 944, which I drove from 18 - 21. It was slow (145hp), it was ugly (by some peoples opinions, not mine) and I loved it. If you want my opinion, get the kid one of those ... they are cheap (by P-car standards) and a lot of fun if it is a well-sorted example. Also, it made the step up to a Boxster MUCH more fulfilling when I was ready to make the jump after college was done with.
Just another idea. Good luck with whatever you decide.
