If it was aussie delivered, split it between STi/Evo/R34. Depending on what you like about the cars.
 
If you were going for Import, definitely check out some of the Toyota's on offer. Even though they might not go as insane as the three above, they are a lot more practical and comfy.
Even if you want to compare to more comfort orientated cars here, eg. XR6T, Aurion or even Subaru Liberty GT, the Toyota's are much cooler and that little bit better build quality.
 
If I had 30k to spend though, I'd save up a little more and buy an 86, or finance one and use the 30k to pay for a Crawford performance short block and turbo conversion ;)

stuka.....what would you buy?
 
4 doors
decent sized boot
decent power 150kw +
decent handling
relatively modern 2006+

 
For that budget I did own a 2007 Subaru Liberty GT spec.B Wagon and was planning some light mods with the change.  3-4mths later it was in the panel beaters for a minor repair when an arsonist burned the place to the ground (with my car inside).
 
I loved that car and would buy the same again, but probably try and get a 2008 Liberty GT 'tuned by STi' with < 100,000kms.  Alternatively I'd be looking at a VW Passat R36 or V6 Turbo-Diesel Mazda6 (or TD Audi A4 quattro if within budget).
 

KnightrousI would ignore all the requirements outlined in the first post, then buy a Lotus Elise for $20k and spend the remainder fitting a 2GR into it :D

 
While ignoring requirements don't let a small detail such as budget restrict you, substitute the 2GR with an RST V8 - just as much effort to squeeze in with greater reward!  Personally I'd spend the money on a 2003 Lotus Esprit V8 SE (UK import).

I am selling my 2010 Lancer Ralliart for $27k.
Naturally I am a car enthusiast so this car has been looked after really well.
It has 177kw and still has new car warranty and capped price servicing.
I am willing to negotiate on price if another car enthusiast is interested.
http://www.carsales.com.au/private/details/Mitsubishi-Lancer-2010/SSE-AD-2426472
 

-Totenkopf-
If you know where to get an Elise for 20k Knightrous let me know.. cash waiting..

There was a S1 Lotus Elise in March for $22k on car sales, it unfortunately was only up for 2 weeks before being sold.
I do a quick check every month or so in case another one sneaks up :)
This is the closest at the moment at near $30k - http://www.carsales.com.a...6432/?Cr=0&sdmvc=1

maj
As much as I love Elises of any age, I'd find it really hard to buy one with the Rover engine.
 I've heard they aren't really *that* bad powerplants when they are running, but the idea of a 2ZZ Toyota engine just seems so much more epic to me.
Also due to some unique parts for the Elise, I'd imagine conversion costs to put a 2ZZ into a S1 wouldn't be justifiable.

In my books, the K series engine would be purely to drive the car home, then it would get dropped on the concrete like the boat anchor it is and the Welder/Grinder duo would come out. Paul Woods has already done V6 conversions on these cars, so it's not like it's an impossible task and the upgrade to a 2GR is better then farting around with a 2ZZ.

PS: I own an Exige and have worked on it.  I know how much room there is, a 2gr wont go in without some serious modifications and even then you'll definitely be loosing the 'boot'.  Sure its possible, but frankly, in the UK anything his legally possible.  They can get away with some crazy modifications etc over there.  You'd need some serious dough to get a 2GR converted elise engineered in Australia.  Just go with the Honda K20A engine.  There are a heap of kits out there already. 
 

^does have a very valid point. You drive like a limo driver with a baby on board. Slow, safe & smooth.