I own one. Your kid probably would want to modify it to extract more power from the engine. Maybe he will want to race some of his friends or some people around town. This car despite it has a small 4 cylinder engine produces 200hp. Enough to get into 100mph in 16 seconds. It sounds like a lot of time but believe me once it hits 6,000rpm the miles goes up very fast.If I were you I will buy an automatic 2006+ Civic EX it has the same safety equipment of the SI. This will reduce the probability that your son want to race out there. If you really love him don't buy a sporty car.I know I had 16 years before even if your child isn't interested on racing now his friends can awake that interest. Wait until he is old enough to become more mature and be more aware that some decisions can affect his life.