I would definitely recommend a WRX, I just bought one and it is the nicest car I have ever owned. Lots of power, reliability, nice interior, good on gas, ect... they are all around great cars. I have also heard that the '04 and newer WRX's have stronger trannies. My first big mod might be a kick ass gearbox, either tougher gears or maybe even a STI 6MT swap