You could get a VERY nice VR-4 for the kind of money you're looking at spending. They are somewhat heavy, but honestly what AWD car isn't carrying some extra weight. A lot of the weight is a result of the Active-Aero, Active-Exhaust, and 4-wheel steering systems, which many owners delete. There is tons of power to be had w/ a TT 6G72 engine, and a damn good aftermarket. Go check out 3si.org, you'll learn a lot quick, and maybe find something for sale.