I picked up my first Z when I was 16 in 2005 and I bought it for 2200. It ran great but was a rust bucket. I'd get a dd (240sx, corolla, tercel, civic, or any older import) and use that while saving up for a Z. I'd have a pretty slick Z right now if I wasn't on my 5th car (and 3rd Z).
Get a daily, save, save, save and get a 75 or older Z since you're in Cali. Get one with minimal rust and go from there. TRUST ME! I know you're going to want to buy the first one you see. I was the same way when I was your age. Be patient and the "one" WILL come. I see deals all the time in craigslist and waited 3-4 months for my current one.
And wouldn't you know it....the very next week there was a better deal than Z I had just purchased
GL dude!