Avoid the M3 Bimmer. Too old and old enough to have been flogged by one of its likely few owners. Too expensive to buy and expensive to fix. I think you already figured that.
I'd avoid Fords as I don't reckon they can build cars that aren't junk, aren't putrid colours, don't have bad panel fit and uncomfortable seats and don't fall apart fast - which is why their resale is crap.
The EVO and STi are OK considerations but, rather irrationally for me, I hate them because they just "are" what they are and also they are like a'holes - everybody has one.
Any hot Renaults around in your price range? They can be a lot of fun. Or how about an Alfa Brera? At least it looks good, which those in the above para DON'T.
Failing these, I'd lean to the Golf on quality and performance, handling and ride.
CP_e Standback & PNP; CP_e 3" SS Downpipe; Corksport FMIC with Top-mount K&N filter & OEM Ram CAI; Turbosmart BOV; Dashhawk; Prosport Boost Guage; JBR solid shift bushes; DBA 4000 Wiper-Slot front rotors; Hawk Ferro-Carbon HPS Street front brake pads (@ 69,000km); Sumitomo HTRZIII's in 225/45 x 18