Oh yeah, I'm completely wrong, what was I thinking? I must just be too stupid to figure it out, how did I ever get to level 21?
It is the game, and I am not the only one saying it, look at the boards and forums, everyone is complaining about the credits and Xp system. The used cars are a joke, the XP grind is unfair and unneeded, the cash is far to small, and the events are too few.
You should be able to level up as you win, and as you do this you should be able to purchase the cars necessary to compete at that next level. Grinding, is a way of life in this game if want a 4 mil$ car.
Its a joke and sad because the racing is superb, the cars you do have are fun, and the graphics are incredible.