I also say get a FC. It's a good first car.

 

I too learned how to drive RWD in a FC. It was a blast! The FC is basically everything the FD is but toned down, especially cost! You'll be surprised how much fun you can have in a NA FC. You can pick up 4-6 good condition FCs for a the price of one good condition FD. If you want another Mazda favorite try the Miata. Speed isn't just measured in a straight line and you can't go wrong with any of these cars...

Only after 10 years of driving did I buy a car with over 200whp. I would've definitely got in too much trouble otherwise.