What country are you in? I'll assume the UK.
Take a look at coombsie66's Focus. Although hardly 'maxxed out' it does look sweet. I also think you will struggle so find a focus for £3000, there are a couple though:
http://tinyurl.com/24mfe
however! Combine both budgets and you can have a good choice of Focus, which IMO is your best option:
http://tinyurl.com/2ooep
If you don't think a focus can be modded, go over to
www.ffoc.co.uk or .com
Now for your other car, there are only two options for that price IMO.
Peugeot 205 gti or Mk1 Golf gti.