For 25-28k there's many options:
RWD:
Stang GT
350Z
Solstice GXP (coming soon)
GTO (30k)
FWD:
SRT4
MS3 (coming soon)
AWD:
WRX
MS6 (30k)
EVO (30k)
STi (30k)
If you can realistically only afford 25k, then you've got less options obviously, versus 30k which opens up quite a few more choices.
If you really want an FI'd car I'd stick with either the EVO or STi if you can afford it. Mod-wise there's a great aftermarket for both and modded, in a streetlight race, they are all but unbeatable due to the AWD unless you're going up against another really well set up vehicle with slicks. Both will easily take 400+whp on the stock block with very few problems to boot.
