Okay a bit of a rant but I've been reading the topics on this forum and I'm not feeling the positive energy from the north or south.
Now I might not be an expert but where in the rules does it say that a first year car must be junk pile that never runs? A good car can be built and designed in 9 months; I've seen a good example. It might not be flashy but it works and sets you up for future years. It takes a lot of hours and a good grasp of the basics.
To all you first year team I say channel your chi and aim high. What say ye?