Not sure asking strangers for advise on which car you should buy is a good idea.

However, in the long run it is your car, and your money (well some of it), and as long as you go in to it knowing the costs and can aford it, get the car you want.

I doubt your family would fork over money if they did not feel you were responsible enough, at least lets hope not.

Age is not always the greatest factor to base things on. How responsible you are, how knowledgeable about cars you are, and are you willing to work for what you want. Seems that if you saved enough for the down payment that says something.

Seriously, write down every detail regarding costs of maintaining the car. Make sure it does not take every penny you make. Make sure you have enough for the other stuff you want or need.

• Know it is not really very usable during the winter, so a second beater car is likely in your future with a xf.
• it requires premium fuel
• you will spend $80 for an oil change every 7000 miles if you do it yourself
• count on tires every 20,000 miles $800-$1000 (average driving)
• It will likely need a battery $100 (now, even if it looks ok)
• insurance (you covered that)
• Find a clean car - good that you have a mechanic check it out.
• IMO, at your age keep these expences under 1/2 of your spendable cash. No fun having a nice car in the driveway that you can not afford to take anywhere.

And make an educated choice.

As for the car itself, we know they can have quirks but for the most part they are well built cars and have a very good safety record. From a safety point, I would not have a problem with anyone having a Crossfire. I would not be as comfortable recommending a cheapo "tin can" car.

Buy hey, I drove a gift beater for a year and a half before I bought a my first car - a lightly used Corvette 4spd. 350/350. I got several warnings about buying a Corvette at 18 but all worked out well.
Good luck.