I am looking for a car around $6000-$8000 and I would like it to be fairly fast and I for sures want it to be a manual transmission. I've been looking into Nissan Maximas which seem pretty nice but it is really hard to find manual maximas...especially in my boring state (New Mexico). What kind of car would you get if you were me.

I'd look around for some bmw's, those can run in those price ranges. Also look around for a 300zx, those are VERY nice. There are many different cars you can get for that price, it all depends on what you like. Look up on ebay motors, i'm sure you'll find something.

-EDIT- I got one just for you, :)
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2429268837&category=6398#ebayphotohosting
it's fast, good looking, and cheap. :sunglasse

Also a twin turbo manual '91 300zx, in kansas city...
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2428523243&category=6398