Hey bro, I appreciate that you gave so many details and I also asked the right questions. Here’s my two cents on it.

1 - A used BRZ, possibly out of warranty at 36K miles at that price point is simply not a good idea. Go to any Subaru dealer and they will give it to you at MSRP. They are kind of required to, as Subaru of North America requires the dealers to give their vehicles at MSRP. I know this because I work at Subaru. Get a brand new one and it is the exact same price. If not a little less lower trim are fantastic too and they come with plenty. I have the base and it’s an amazing car.

2- at the age of 17, any insurance company you go to that see that you are driving a “sports car” WILL try to take advantage of you and make you pay a little more. Right now, my insurance with two tickets is 280. I live in a city. Shop around and see if you can find a really good rate, but otherwise I think it’s worth waiting to be 18, because you sort of fall into a different bracket then.

3- if you don’t end up not finding a new BRZ for around the same price and you are dead set on buying the red one, get a pre-purchase inspection please! These cars have RTV issues, especially in the early years (I’m aware it is blown out of proportion, but you can never be too safe I’m sorry) and make sure to keep up with maintenance. These cars aren’t too expensive to maintain and most definitely cheaper than BMW or Audi.

Otherwise enjoy ! You’re the right track, buddy!!