While I agree that new drivers maybe should not be given a brand new car because of lack of experience, old cars are not as safe. When my brother stared looking for his car (he is now 17) I offered to have the Eclipse sold if it was the difference between hm being in something unreliable and unsafe, or something a little more expensive that wasn't going to break down or not protect him in an accident. Safety standards have grossly improved over the years, and that was the main reason my family put the money into my brothers car that we did. Granted, it was still less that 10k, but still more expensive than some of the cars you guys are talking about having.

97 RS- Runs, but never driven
2000 Subaru Outback- Daily Driver