My dad gave me a 93 Ford Bronco for my first vehicle. Such an awesome fishing rig, I took that thing all over the place and it never let me down. I also smashed it into my mom's brand new SUV when I was 17. Happened in the driveway of all places. Bronco was fine, new car needed the entire passenger side replaced.

I like the advice regarding the expectation that your kid will likely [Bleeeeep!] up whatever vehicle you get them. Kids do really dumb things. Whatever vehicle it is, it should be well built and relatively safe.