<prompt> Human: I ran off to Scotland when I was 18, stayed for 9 years, and returned to America 6 months ago. Im getting and American life sorted out, and there are two big things I still need to take care of: a car, and my credit score.My mom has had me on a joint card for years in case of emergency, and I opened a credit card of my own when I got back, which has just had its limit bumped up to 3,500. These are the only things on my credit report, which puts me in the weird situation of having a good score 740 according to CreditKarma on a practically empty report.Ive also finally been learning to drive. Im taking my test on Saturday and expect to pass. I have 2,500 I could put towards a beater car, which appeals to me because fewer monthly payments is better, and by the time it craps out Ill know more about what Im doing with my life. On the other hand, if buying a nicer probably still used car on credit would be good for my credit report, that would be a big deal for me. Im hoping to buy a home in 7-8 months and want to do everything I can to make my credit excellent.Oh rPF gurus, what would you do? And if I did buy a car on credit, is it better to get an auto loan from a bank or get financing from the dealership?  <response>: Purchase things because its the right decision. Dont spend money to attempt to increase your credit score. 