FYI, the '97-'98 were slightly different than the '99-'03. VERY slight differences (PCM, coolant overflow bottle location, air intake design, etc). '97 had different PCM and no traction control on/off option. I think there were also some slight interior changes, but you're basically getting the same car with any year so I wouldn't rule out any '97-'03 if I were you, although the '99+ seem to hold their value better.
I had a '97 coupe, bone stock when I got it at 119k, and after modding it a little drove it for a year, got rid of it at 135k before I took it any further with mods and would've had to replace the tranny. Like others have said, once you get a little deeper with mods, it's only a matter of time before you kiss the stock tranny goodbye. Basically the only weak link of these cars once you start adding power is the transmission.
It was an awesome car though. PERFECT daily driver, basically everything you could possibly want for a daily. All the info you'll ever need can be found at clubgp.com