It's time for me to move out. My parents want me in the house by 12 every night...?

It is ridiculous that you are in their hosue still. I bet they are tired of it too. Adults should live in their own places, by their own means.

You are already late leaving, so if a cheap car speeds that up then that is what you need.

Their house, their rules. It is an argument you can't win. Before you pack your bags I suggest you talk to your friends that live on their own and find out how much it costs to do so. I agree having a car is important but not a necessity. But I would only buy a $600 car if I knew how to fix cars, otherwise I suggest a larger investment.

well, you could just respect their wishes until you feel more financially comfortable moving out. at your age it's perfectly normal to be living at home still these times anymore. $600 car will get you somewhere but make sure that there isn't anything wrong with it. just take into account all the expenses that are included with the car (registration, insurance, gas).

Why don't you try to convince your parents that they're are wrong instead?

Set up a plan first.

Find out how much a place would cost per month in your area. You will probably need a roommate and that means you will have some sort of rules for each other (cleaning, eating each others food, noise, guests, splitting utilities, pets, paying rent on time, etc). Do you know anyone currently living like that? I would ask them about the costs involved. Buying a car involves insurance and maintenance plus gas and storage also- try and think of all the costs involved and see if you can budget for this.