re: Got to have a job to get a car according to my father.

Assuming you are honest about having good grades, playing many sports and being involved in a ton of extra curricular activities, I think it is retarded for your parents to not get you a vehicle. That would be a type of reward for your hard work. Assuming everything listed is true, I'll assume you also don't get into any trouble...yet another reason in your favor.

IMO, your mom and dad should put the same amount of money forward for your vehicle, and let you pay them back through a side job or summer job. (at very least)

Coming from someone that went through the same in high school, a vehicle helps. Luckily, my parents bought my first vehicle so I could be at all of my sporting events and such. I was blessed. They also bought the exact vehicle I wanted and my little brother now drives it. They had no problem doing so considering my accomplishments in the classroom and on the field.