saying to not get a 97 because of no TC button is laughable... the GT's had one, the GTP's did not. However, just because one has a TC button doesnt mean that you should stomp on the gas and do burnouts. that's a very good way to grenade a differential. I understand the want to make pretty smoke, but a bad idea if the car isnt set up for that.
OP-- definitely search craigslist and autotrader near you. it's unlikely you'll get what you want in your price range from a dealer, unless it's a car in poor shape.