Celica Forums General Discussion General This or That? 2002 vs 2000

I am trying to decide between two Celicas on Craigslist. one is a -- (1.) 2000 Celica GT-s 160,000miles and $4500 -- the other is a --(2.) 2002 Celica GT 145,000miles and $3000.

Now. Obviously the GTS is faster, more expensive upfront and to own (insurance, gas).

What I want to know is: does the GT have the same potential as the GTS? both are high mileage so I'm assuming an engine swap will be down the road (can the same engines be put into both cars?). And 2nd is reliability. Both are pretty reliable sports cars, is one significantly more reliable than the other? (my guess would be the GTS was driven pretty hard).

What I am looking for is a car to hold onto for awhile, worth putting money into, new engines, modify. (Potential would be important)
Fast, able to bring to the track, learn how to race in it (not to go pro or anything, just a desire I have)
Also, one that is inexpensive to own, easy to own (trying to learn on this platform) - College student who drives a lot.

And I am a Toyota fan. Ive looked at Scion TCs (too common). MR2 (too small - Maybe difficult to learn on?). Older Celica? maybe. (1993 Celica ST 150k Miles $2000 - Another option?). Some more with V6s but thats too much in Gas and Insurance.

The GTS has aout 40 more horsepower, a factory installed amp, and a few other nice features. that being said, i have the gt, and i love love love love it. it has a little less power, same sharp looks, slightly better mpg, however in a swap in order to replace the gt's 1zz with the gts's 2zz, youll also need the transmission, and i think the ecu from that engine