I would fix the SVT and stick with it for a while. Everybody here has made some logical points. And stay away from those Firebirds. The first one is a Formula, not a T/A, so basically the difference between a Z-28 and an SS. You can tell by the rear spoiler. If you MUST get a new car, I would look for a 2003-2004 Jetta GLI or at least a 1.8T. They can be had for about $10K, are fun cars to drive, can make more power for cheap, and are cheap to insure. It won't handle as well as a good CSVT, but you can make ~240HP 280TQ with TWO mods- turboback exhaust ($700) and chip ($500).