Spend a little more, you can get a new neon. I can't believe I'm saying it, but they're fast and decent autox cars from what I've seen. That torque goes a long way.
You could get a used WRX, that'd be cool..again, good autox car from awd...like you said, good winter car.
Could get a used ITR, bomb. Good handling, short gearing & LSD for autox. Hard to find, insurance will probably be a lot due to theft rates, etc. And like you said, can be hard to find in good shape/low miles.
Other than those, I can't really think of anything else in your price range besides a GSR/Prelude. Might be able to find an RSX-S for that price...02 maybe.
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2015 Ford Mustang GT Fastback - Ingot Silver - 6M - Performance Package - Gibson Catback, JLT CAI, FR 47lb injectors, BAMA E85 tune, Eibach Sportline, BMR wheel hop kit, UPR oil separator, Steeda shifter bushing/bracket
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