Originally Posted by romperrr

At your price point, few bikes are off limits. If I were you, my first goal would be finding a bike that fits, which size do you ride? Members here are likely willing to make suggestions from your local Craigslist.

After finding a well-fitting frame (or bike), I'd go about modernizing the components. While I don't necessarily agree that integrated shifter/brake levers make you faster, since your husband is riding on those, you could match. Check out the Retro Roadie thread for inspiration.

Regarding brand, you can't go wrong with vintage Trek or Italian (mind the long TT on some Italian frames), but don't rule out Japanese or other European marks. Also depending on your size look into Georgina Terry bikes like the Symmetry which is designed for shorter riders with the smaller front wheel.