Maxvla.. Go test drive some 6th gen civics. Preferably the EXs, the gearing is better and they feel considerably more powerful then the non-VTEC versions. You can usually pick these up within your price range with lower miles.
Like I said before, checkout autotrader.com for cars in your area that fit your price range, test drive them and pick the one you like best. Thats the best way to do it.
