ecu,
to get an 02 for less than $35k is really pushing it....very doubful @ dealer, but they should get to the $37-8K range via negoiation....
I agree with SW than Jan/Feb are good times to get best deals....Christmas bills on Credit is due, taxes have been paid by 12/31, etc...and people are out of available cash to get a vehicle.
Personal property wise, it's also better to wait until after Jan 1 to get a car.....unless the dealer will write it up like that and give you an offer you can't refuse...