Sorry, but, besides the loan he needs to know that a new car he will also have to pay 16 % Itbis on. I still would buy used.
DR has great public transportation (as third world countries go). My .02 would be to rely on the system for a year or two, rent vehicles on an as needed basis (you'd be surprised how little you need them), or maybe purchase an inexpensive scooter to get you about town.
Save your money during that time so you can pay for the whole thing at once, then call or email Rocky, who will point you in the right direction towards getting a solid, reliable, used car.
At those usurious interest rates, doing anything else is just throwing your money away.
Good luck,
DRob