Just out of Curiosity, because I am turning 16 fairly soon, and between me and my parents we have a budget of around 8, but there are probably some 9k cars you could talk down to 8k.Or should I wait until I gain a bigger varity?
Get something less than 20 years old. For $8k you should be able to find something less than 8 yrs old.
And for your first car, you do not want to drive a big one, specially with manual transmission.
If you're looking for a first car/truck with a manual, a small pickup would probably be your best bet. A Ford Ranger, Chevy S10, Nissan Frontier, GMC Canyon, a Tacoma if you can find one cheep enough. They all came in a manual, are relatively reliable, and get ok fule economy. Plus insurance wont be terrible for a new driver.
The 7.3 is a very reliable engine and the ZF6 is a very good transmission. Just try to avoid rust buckets.
I don't know your driving background, so I am not sure if a large f350 is good for you or not. I live on a small farm and have been driving equipment since I was like 8. When I got my permit I mainly drove a crown vic or a Excursion. Before I could drive by myself or get my first car, I had to past my father's very strict driving test. My first car was a 1996 f150 short bed standard cab with a 5 speed. My second truck (which i currently still daily drive) is a 2000 F350 Dually Diesel 6speed.
With that being said, if you have a similar driving background to mine. I would recommend a short bed standard cab F350. A long bed or a dually would be a risky and dangerous choice.
