Protege are fun to drive. I had one for a while, but it really lacked of power and started to fall apart and shack at high speed.

21 grand is a little bit too much IMO.

My most recent purchase was a 98 GS-R w/ leather seats.
It's even more fun to drive than the protege, and sporty.
I got it for 8500 only, and I know it won't let me down.

Look around, there are so much great deals you can have on used cars. But if you really want to get a new car, check www.edmunds.com for the TMV.