<prompt> Human: Hey PF,A few details to start:Age: 21Savings: 4kJob: 18hr full time over summer, part time fall semesterGraduate Job: Potentially 80-90kFinancial Assistance: 1-2kExpenses: No reoccurring Education: Completing BS in Computer Science in DecemberI need a car for the summer, fall semester, and years after that. I graduate in December, and have a steady job from June until graduation. In September, Ill know if I secure a position working corporate for 80k from friends who have graduated from same program, same GPA, this semester, same company. The company has already shown that they are highly interested in me personally recommended by hiring manager, match requirements, am fully qualified, and while I know its nothing of a done-deal, Im optimistic. Foolish, I know, but I am.That said, Ive fallen completely in love with the Mazda 3. Specifically, the 2014 model. I have some savings, income, and may be able to get some assistance from parents in regards to purchasing a new vehicle. The vehicle Im looking at is coming out to 16k, and would match my commute needs all around perfectly. While I wont have any immediate expenses living at home, I will need to start paying student loans a few months after graduation.I know the general consensus is to buy used, something that gets you through. However, the Mazda 3 has fantastic resale value, and we already have one in the family meaning that Mazda supplies a 500 discount. Its a car that brings me a great amount of happiness, and my current financial projections leave me enough money to finance the car without issues for almost two years. However, I cant help but realize that a lot of this comes from optimism. Worst case scenario - I get fired from job for some reason and cant secure anything post graduation. This results in me being painfully in debt from this car. Ive had a great employment and credit history though - I really dont think this will be an issue.Can someone help me balance personal wishes and financial soundness here? Im willing to spend more and sacrifice for the sake of having a great daily ride, so the real question is...Am I crazy for wanting a Mazda 3?  <response>: You are not crazy, but it may not be the best idea. Is it possible to purchase a cheaper less than 5,000 car right now.Save up as much as you can from the summer job, and then you can buy a Mazda once you have the 80,000 job.You would be driving a crappy car for 6-12 months, and then be in a lot better position to buy the Mazda. 