i'd say start out with a blaster, an innocent little 200cc [get the point?] you can make them scoot for cheap. your folks will feel you're safe since it's 'small', and you can work up from there in a year or so.
those other quads are cool too, but it sounds like they want you to start out small. just dont tell em how quick you can make a blaster 'on the cheap' theyre lots fun too!

 

Rode last week with the Kaw 400, it was stock other than paddles and it looked to be a good ride. If you ride the sand a little extra cc can keep you out of trouble. 16? Like dad said when you turn 18 you can make all the decisions you want, but it will be at your own house! Good luck brother!