I went and drove the new VW Rabbits a few months ago, those are definitely fun, the salesman didn't like me leaving laying down some rubber in the lot, or breaking the read end loose. Either way, I had alot of fun!, plus they're only like $15k. You could get two, still be under your budget and have loads of fun.

However, I do love my A6, I only wish it was slightly newer with the navigation bits. AWD, heated seats and the ski condom are a must for me in this weather