old guy needs fun modern-ish driver

In my humble opinion, it is really hard to beat a nice used Mustang GT. I am a Mopar guy, but a Mustang GT is great bang for the buck.
I totally agree. There are a zillion of them to choose from, but hard to find those early late model Stangs with V8 and much less a stick that is not abused and needs lots of work. But they are out there an even a good one is not expensive at all.
Lot easier to find aC4 or C5 Vette that is low mile cream puff, cheap enough, but I am not a Vette kind guy.