Go for a 2000 Impreza WRX (5-speed) with low miles (if you can find it). You will NEVER go back. AND you can pretend you are Tommy Makkinen or Peter Solberg
Any one knows who am I talking about?
But do not take either if you do not plan working on them yourself. I save an average of 75% of costs by DIY'ing it. Example- to replace front struts would cost me $600-$700, I did it myself in 3 hrs (never have done that before) and pay $200 in parts. for either of your Dad's cars you are looking way more.