NewToThis

I had a chance to drive an '06 S (owned by a "friend of a friend"). Two things -

1st - I was surprised as to the sound that the motor made. Sounded like a real race car. 2nd - the acceleration was great. When I hit the gas - my body was pressed against the seat big time...

Sorry to report - original top end budget of $30k has now been lowered to $25k.

Spokayman

Wow, better buy something quick before the budget shrinks again....

Seriously though you are in base model territory with that budget.
Try a base model on a nice road with some curves and elevation changes and see what you think.

extanker

you are in for rude awakening at traffic lights

HoBoJoe

Go for the S, but at your budget depending on how important miles are to you go for whatever you can find that you get excited about. You can get an S for $25k but you'll find a much nicer base for the same amount of money. I ended up stretching my budget to get exactly what I wanted and I don't regret it one bit.