As someone who began experimenting when I was 12 years old, and who was having sex by the time I was 15 or 16, I can tell you that I knew what I wanted at that age. The question remains as to whether or not I was actually READY for it (psychologically, not physically... I was "all grown up" in the areas that mattered by that point :P )
Whether I was or not, I was raised to live with the consequences of my actions. Admittedly, I was raised by a Dutch mother whose views on these kinds of things was quite liberal... but as an adult looking back on my life, I think that living my life and learning from the decisions I made (both the good ones, as well as the mistakes) helped shaped me into a responsible adult.
When I was 16, there definitely were older people (in their 20s) that I was sexually attracted to, and I'm sure if the opportunity presented itself, I would've had sex with them, if possible. At that age, I wasn't looking for a "serious relationship", I was likely looking to get my rocks off. I know with guys and girls, it's different... but for me, I don't think I would've been heartbroken if "things didn't work out". Chances are good that I'll have learned something from the experience... sexually, as well as psychologically.
All that said, however... we're all different. But I can assure you that in most societies, most teens don't concern themselves overly much about the age of consent. If they're determined to f**k, they're going to.