IMO, you need to really asses what your needs and priorities are. It is very likely that you might have to make some compromises as far as what you want in a car (performance, 2003MY or newer, v6 power, 5-speed etc). I really only think that is inevitable. I would recommend in your price range a Volvo S60, finding one in a 5-speed can be a bit of a challenge, but they are out there (somewhere), and you get v6 power without the displacement, the aftermarket is not great, but as good as the contours if not better.....
As far as exactly what the crash tests mean check both the NHTSA as well as the IIHS and maybe even Euro NCAP for an idea. They should have a description on what each level means as well as the specifics on each car.
HTH!
