That all depends where you want to go with this car... import or domestic, AWD/RWD/FWD, turbo, naturally aspirated, sports car, drag racer... Whether you want to build it or just buy it...
I think the 88 GT Fiero with a 3.4 DOHC is a great pick, looks, handling, power...
An original Maverick with a performance 400M, thats a rocket and it still weighs less than 3000 lbs.
A 240SX with a turbo build on a KA24, or even an SR20DET swap...
A S10 with a 383 LT1...
A 1971 240Z with an SR20DET, or a 5.0 liter Ford...
A 84-89 300ZX with a built engine, 300-500 hp...
A late 80s Supra...