Looks are subjective. The Trans Am is cheaper, faster (weighs less), and t-tops are a cool bonus. If you're looking for performance on a budget, look no further than an LS1 f-body.
That being said, if I could afford it, I'd get a GTO. You won't have as many squeaks and rattles and stuff that you'd get with an f-body, and the interiors are sooo much better. And they handle pretty well for being as heavy as they are.
Have you considered a C5? They are cheap these days. And like Slowpoke said a few posts ago, no matter what car you buy, make sure you get a 6-speed. Automatics suck.
QFT
'01 GT - Top swapped. ported SC/Heads/TB, SD headers, open cone, HPTuners, 3.4 MPS, 60#'s, E85.______________________SMGPFC #99_______________________