Perhaps there is a place you can rent a lens near you. A shop around here has an 80mm for $18/day. You can test the camera function for that cost plus film and processing.

I have a DSC-TX30 and a Sony cybershot DSC-W50 which I like better.
5X and 6X respectively.

I will check around on that possibility. Last camera shop in Portsmouth closed 10 years ago. Probably will be able to find a shop in Boston that rents.

Late to th' party but: Welcome aboard number6.

The 'blad 500C was a pro piece, 2¼" square neg. Interchangeable backs came for either 120 or 220 roll film. There is a digital back available but cost is about as high as Apollo missions went (over the moon). I always found that pistol grip to be useless. A black plastic focusing ring was useful, though. It was a great tool for bride chasing and portraits but a really burdensome lump as a photojournalism camera.

FWIW/JMHO: Better off with a DSLR now; the image quality will largely depend on money spent but will likely equal the 'blad's. Get the best camera you can afford, then grow INTO the capabilities of the thing. A "cheap tool" will disappoint in short order. Whether it be an inferior wrench or camera. Get the best your money can buy, then pursue proficiency with it.

EDIT: Forgot to mention: a 'blad is definitely a two-hands-needed camera.

Doc, I appreciate the feedback. I think I will follow your advice
and get a very good 35. I am taking a hint from Cyborg and going to look at the Canon. Wife works at Best Buy so she can probably
get a decent price. Next step is to take an instruction course,
and get a little grounding.

Good plan.

I picked up a Canon SX50 HS with image stabilizer. So far I am pleased with the controls. I expect to have occasions where I will
use this in low light situations. Shooting cars in dim garages, etc. Would getting an accessory flash unit help with that?

I have an SX50 HS and it is a fantastic camera within certain limitations. One of those limitations is the aperture not very large, which means it is not the greatest in low light. At the wide end of the telephoto range (24mm) you will get f3.4 which isn't too bad, but as you zoom, the aperture quickly gets smaller (lets in less light). If you get a flash, get one you can use off camera. The SX50 has a pop-up flash, but those are not much use except as a fill flash when you are shooting in very bright light and need to "fill" in to soften the shadows. Your users manual lists the recommended flashes for your camera.

I appreciate the info. Thank you.

You're welcome. Go out and try some telephoto shots hand held and you will see what a great camera you have there! You have more reach with that SX50 than you'd have with a digital SLR and a $13,000 800mm Canon L lens! For the price it really is quite an amazing camera!