Pull the whole shitbox motor and trans out and throw an Si 5 speed on a ZC motor.
Automatics are bad, convert to manual.
With that kind of budget it is completely possible.
New engine and transmission, and you'll be halfway to the rims.
http://www.hmotorsonline.com/shop/sc...age&item=30020
An Si transmission is not hard to find.
Rent an engine hoist and do it yourself, it's very straight forward.
A tune-up, seriously, involves replacing spark plugs, changing the oil, and topping off fluids. They look for obvious problems and charge you a mint. Spark plugs cost about 2 buck a piece and are unbelivably easy to replace.
I wouldn't do anything at the dealer, you get really ripped off.
It is worth it to invest in some basic tools and a helms manual, it's really worth it.