My first car was a '62 Bug my dad bought me in '71. I drove it about 15k miles when the engine seized. My dad's a great guy, but not as a source of automotive technicalities - such as engine oil is a maintenance item. At the cost of an engine rebuild - cheap on the Bug - I began my self-education in automotive mechanics.

It probably isn't so important WHAT you get your kid as long as it comes with a dose of common sense education on care. Wouldn't hurt to maintain it yourself if she isn't so inclined.

Steve