just get a cable to transfer data off the hard drive via usb:
Newegg.com - Vantec 2.5"/3.5"/5.25" SATA/IDE to USB 2.0 Adapter - Model CB-ISATAU2
you can also just pllug it into a new comp.
as for new computers, you can get an awful lot for 300-400 now. i pretty much only use laptops, so no quick recs, but you can get a hell of a deal on friday or monday. it died at the right time.