Buying a Car

I am looking to spend about 12,000-14,000 on a car.

I want a car that is from about 2004 to now.

I want it to be kind of sporty, pretty fast (more than say 170 horsepower)
and gets atleast 18-22 city and 24-28 highway miles per gallon.

If you can find something that meets these standards or gets close to these standards that would be greatly apppreciated.

Pehaps a Grand Prix GTP, most likely 2004? 260 horses and 280 lb/ft. torque. Average 18/28 for city/highway. Not bad for a supercharged car. Dunno how fast you want, it isn't "lightning" fast.

Ya, i was thinking of getting a grand prix gtp or just the gt, i just want something around or over 200 horses. Any other suggestions?

Nissan Maxima will be good also. Same class as the Grand Prix, produces similar power numbers, and similar gas mileage ratings. Mazda 6 has a little less horsepower than the other two, but its at 220 (215 in 06) which is still above what you want. Produces similar mileage also. Look at the Saab cars too. 9-5 can suit your needs. The highest horsepower I saw for a 9-3 in this range is 210, dunno if that's enough. Nice cars, though.

I am more looking for a car that i can put real miles on day to day and that has an bonus of power and handling.

I have looked at the scion tc and like it. I also like it becasue it comes in manual which i prefer.

If anyone has any other suggestions they would be greatly appreciated

04 Altima 3.5 SE
20/26 mpg
3.5L 245HP V6
~$16k