Plastic costs less than metal

. My dad drove his G35 into a post once.
Of course, in a 1 on 1, not much short of a transport truck can plow a F650. That's when you regret getting a honda.
MHO about car brands:
Volvo - Runs well, but i don't really like the look
Ford - Unless it's a 'stang, it's terrible
Mustang - Awesomeness, but a crappy first car for a host of reasons
Honda - Jap crap in it's truest form
Nissan - Got some nice sports cars, but your first car probs won't be a 350z
Volksvagen - Das Auto
Audi - Nice beginner car, runs quite smoothly
Subaru - The Impreza is nice...
Chevy Jeep Dodge - Some Dodges are OK...
GM - No.
Saturn - if you get around the appearance, a nice car...