I know a lot of people look for the Singer 301's for quilting. They have a longer throat and are work horses. I've been considering getting one although I have issues threading things lately... aging eyes even with reading glasses on....
You can usually get one of those for about $100 in a cabinet. Granted, I've seen a lot of people asking a lot more for them but you might be able to find one at a yard sale or second hand store for less.