If you want to spend around 6000$, and you want it to be “more substantial” (I am assuming bigger and with more power).
Than I would say go for a Dodge stealth/Mitsubishi 3000 or a high end (AWD) Eclipse/Talon.

The high end Preludes are nice but cost a lot more
Another option would be a Nissan 240SX, although they have only 155hp.