Originally posted by Kai
Manuals are traditionally a bad choice for a first car. The kid is just learning how to drive and should be comfortable with the operation of their own vehicle before they go cruising around town. The middle of a busy intersection is not a good place to forget how to use the clutch, especially when you have no driving experience.
A third or fourth generation Accord would make a great first car, but it's not "fast." Maybe a 92-93 Integra would be a little better.
Everyone should start on manual IMO.