Need some advice before purchasing

Before anything else, I'd like to keep this as unbiased as possible. There are fanboys, and their opinions do matter, but please offer more than "microshit SUX" or "PSN HAXED".
I currently have an old pro model (first batch, 20gb) 360, and was looking to upgrade to a 360 slim. However, I started considering the possibility of getting a ps3 instead. I know the features of the 360 (new ones and old ones) are near equal, but I would prefer the peace of mind of a slim model.
I love the xbox live gold features, the avatar maker and social features are great, but having not owned a ps3, I was wondering if ps3 offered anything similar. I do realize that for actual online gaming the 360 is better because it's not peer to peer (or so I heard), but apart from that.
Also, I'm not loaded, I have about 150 bucks to spend right now (bills coming up following weeks, so I can't save up too much more for a while), but I could get like 65$ for my 360 at gamestop and get a 4gb 360 slim, or a PS3 fat.
I also don't know if there's a great risk to ps3 fats (akin to the white 360's and their notorious RROD issues), as I'm not looking to lose my investment too quickly. I was also considering buying a ps3 from a pawn shop (180$ for a 160gb slim at nearby pawnshops) or from craigslist (even cheaper). But I don't know if there's a great risk to it apart from sneaky people (a'la red lights of 360, again).
Was looking for some advice with which to make an educated decision.

I have both a ps3 slim and the 360. If your going for something with online stay with 360. The ps3 may be free online but its not as good as 360. but if its for games only the ps3 has go for it.

i play both ~ just because some games didnt come out for xbox and others didnt come for ps3 which thats sux and i really find some games must be in the other console

Well I own a Xbox 360 and have played PS3 more than a few times.

For me, I feel Xbox has a better online experience than PS3. Along with the console only titles.

But don't get me wrong, ps3 only titles are just as good.

People always try to bring up the graphics talk when it comes to these two, but there is no factual difference that one out performs the other in that area.

Along with PS3 Home and Blu-ray ( which I don't care anything for ) it is a great console. And the online is free too, but leaves some errors.
Xbox on the other hand, we pay for out online. Which is good, but only if you can fork out some $ on a yearly basis. Even though there are Xbox Live Membership sales every month or week. Which give you gold for 2 months for a $1.

All in all they are both great consoles. To me Xbox allows for more versatility in its area. Ranging from gaming to entertainment, making your money you spend worthwhile.

Hope I helped in anyway, if you want to know anything else on Xbox I'd be glad to give you some more info.

I would recommend 360 if you plan on playing games online.