1) Now I feel like I have to create a seating arrangement for a party that ensures all of you have a good time, don't clock elbows, and also do not eat each other.

2) Honda Fit, anyone? You can probably start to get them used (2-3 yrs old). And how much money is "pretend money"?

3) I'm also fond of the Old Accord theory of transporation; my family has had one forever, and when you no longer care about the interior, you can carry 5 bales of straw in one and still get 35 mpg.