For $1000 you can get a mid 80's Subaru
Some of them had Low range even, but be warned the maintenece on them can be a *****.
Its like buying an old VW Rabbit, some of them just go and go and go, and every once in a while you get one that wont go 10' without needing a new head gasket or timing chain. The mid late 80's Subaru's have a great 2wd,4wd system, but they will need CV joints, head gaskets, etc etc typical stuff for somethign with high miles.
I had a 89 legacy GL-10 Turbo wagon for a few years. WHen it was running that thing was a mean beast, it would go anywhere! BUT it went through 4 sets of head, 3 turbos, cv joints, exhaust, etc etc etc...My friend had the same car with the same problems.
If you want something that is great in the snow for $1000, I second that, get a BII
Or how about an AMC Eagle??
Thats a great CARuck as I call them...you can work on it like it was a CJ.
the old Subaru Brat was a pretty good car too, also easyt to keep running, as long as you dont get a lemon...