What's a good beginner SLR camera?

What's a good beginner SLR camera? I've been looking on eBay, but I don't know what would be good for me.

There are a lot of older cameras, 60's, 70's, 80's, 90's yadda yadda that come with an array of lenses, etc. It would be great to get a low cost package, but I don't know what's the best way for me to go. Am I wrong in thinking that 35mm SLR camera technology hasn't changed too much?

Would these also be something I could use to take night shots?

To reiterate, I'm looking for a good beginner package SLR camera where I can learn the basics, take a course or two or three, and then upgrade to something better. There are older 70's and 80's sets that are under 100 and even some under 50. Would this be okay? Which models should I look for?

Any leads?

Basically, I'm looking for the same of some classic 70's or 80's cameras that would be a good 'starter' SLR camera for me. (I'm pretty good with the digitals, and I've had the point and click 35mm's a while ago, but I'm really interested in SLR's as a hobby)

I'm hoping to get a lead on a good camera and then find an older, used package on eBay that comes with a variety of lenses so I can upgrade AFTER I know what I'm doing.

I'm hoping I can nab a decent beginners set for less than $150.00.

Thanks for everyone who has answered so far!

In my opinion, cameras from the '70s and early '80s are far superior to anything modern for learning photography.

The reason is that they force you to take a much more "hands on" approach with exposure and focus, while at the same time being relatively fool proof and make it really difficult to mess things up.

In general, I would suggest that you avoid SLRs from before about 1970. Many of these are simply a pain to use, since they lack an automatic diaphragm, self-returning mirrors, and integrated, coupled meters.

Just be sure that whatever you get, it's in good shape and, preferably, comes with a guarantee. Older cameras tend to be great workhorses, but can cost more than they're worth to fix if they break.

EDIT:

I missed where you actually asked for specific models-sorry about that.

My best suggestion on a specific model is the Canon FTb.

In its day, it would have been a high-end serious amateur camera-something along the lines of a Canon 40D or Nikon D200 today. Unlike many less expensive cameras, it has a meter on-off switch, so it won't drain the battery if you leave the cap off the lens. It also has a self timer, depth of field preview, and mirror lock up-all very useful and valuable features. Finally, perhaps the best feature is the "quick load" feature, which allows you to simply pull the film leader to a designated mark, and then close the back. The film loads automatically by firing the shutter and advancing the film three times-far easier than most other manual cameras.

Perhaps the best thing going for it, though, is the vast selection of superb lenses available for it, often at very inexpensive prices. There's everything from a 7.5mm fisheye or 14mm rectilinear, to a 50mm 1.2, to an 800mm 5.6.

I paid $50 for my FTb, along with two great lenses, off of Ebay.

The Pentax K1000 was a wonderful 35mm SLR camera. I got one when I was in high school 15 years ago, and learned all about photography using it.

I hope that helps. Sometimes you can find them at pawn shops, but like the others said, you need to make sure that it is in good working condition before you buy it.

Check out the nikon d60. You can get one with 2 different zoom lenses and other accessories at Costco at a very reasonable price

Well.
I know a couple of places you can get a cam for cheap, or at least discounted.

www.photographyplace.info

is a good place, they have a couple of good ebooks to.
Have fun!

the king of old school slr's, the Nikon F3.

I would look at a Nikon or Canon. The old Nikon's can take a beating . I have two Nikormats that are forty years old and still work great. If you buy an older camera from the 60's or 70's make sure you can get the batteries for the internal light meters. They don't take regular batteries and can be very hard to find.
Most of these cameras are completely manual and are capable of taking any type of shot you want.

I would check local private camera stores (no chains). Many sell used or vintage equipment and can tell you how to use it.
I would also check Craigslist. It is much better to see and inspect the equipment before you buy it.