[Backtobasics]

Cliff's notes:
I am looking for suggestions on best vehicle to target for a new daily driver to cut fuel economy, ecomod, etc.

Relevant info:
--Performance enthusiast that happens to want to be fuel efficient as well.
--Family man with 4 kids. Car does not need to carry the entire family, but ability to carry kids is a plus.
--Prefer manual trans (see enthusiast) but could make do with auto.
--Minimal budget, (under 1K) but I am a true wrench, so I can find them broken, fix and modify. Prius, Insight, etc are too much.

Looking for opinions...