A WRX wagon and a Miata. You can get one of each for right around $50k - less if you buy used.

I have an old Miata. It sips gas, makes wonderful noises and is the second-best handling car I've ever driven. The best was a Formula V (that's an open-wheel race car made out of old VW parts - it's like a big go-kart with suspension and a transmission).

My roommates have a WRX. It's quick, handles pretty well and has plenty of room for luggage.

I also hear wonderful things about the Mazda RX-8. It's not so easy on gas, but it's supposed to handle like an oversized Miata. It can hold four real adults, and at least some of their stuff.