Looking to buy a ride- Advice Needed!

I'm looking for a new car. Been driving a 2002 civic, and its nice for getting around town, but having to shift out of first at 15mph (screaming) is getting annoying :D Anyway, looking for something under 16Kish. I'd like something fast. Definitely looking at used cars.

S2000s look pretty nice, but I've never driven one. I love Audi's but for right now I think they will be too hard to service and a little over that price range.

Anyway, I'd love it if anyone could hit me up with some good ideas etc.