I used to think the 97-99's looked better, but after I got my 03, the look really grew on me, now I think it looks amazing, but maybe I'm biased. I think the interior ergonomics and design on the 00-03's are much better. THe only thing is, with your budget, the 99 you buy will probably be better eqquiped, moonroof, leather, BOSE, where as the 00 you can afford will probasbly be pretty base. So given the budget, I'd look for a 99 SE (The middle model)