buying a ps3 for ps2/1 games.. need help

hi there

this weekend im going out to either buy a ps2 or ps3.. 

i just realized that my ps2 has accidently been thrown out in our move... i have a ps3 already, from 2007 but it doesnt play ps2 games. i dont use ps3 at all for games atm.. i might, but the main purpose is i want something to play ps2 games

what i need help with is knowing which ps3s can play all 3 playstation generations? 

i would just go and get a 2nd hand ps2 but ive seen lots of sales lately with super cheap deals on ps3s with games so id like to know which model to look for if i see a good deal.

if its the wrong model ill just go to a 2nd hand shop and get a ps2

btw i did a search on the net but only found old threads/forums about the subject, saying get the first gen of ps3 with 60gig HDs

just checking to see if this is the only model or not i can use for this purpose.

oh, also, having not played consoles much the last few years, whats the online psn like? in terms of online gameplay & downloadable games?

what ps3 games would you recommend someone both single player games (rpg mainly) and online multiplayer?

thanks heaps guys

Az

the one ps2 game above all else i really want to play again is Dragon Quest 8

is this available on the ps3 online store?

looks like ill probably have to buy a 2nd hand ps2 and track down another copy of DQ8 as looks like that got "misplaced" as well

:cry:

Not to state the obvious, but when compared side by side, the deals on used PS2s (and PS1s) absolutely smoke what seems to be going on with the PS3.  Just browsing eBay there were original Playstations bundled with connections, controllers and game lots for $15-$20.  I personally picked up a used PS2 with a few games, 2 controllers and the connections for $35 a few weeks back.  Haven't encountered anything that comes close to these prices on a used PS3.

i realize they wont be the same price, was just wondering as there are some good deals where i am both new and 2nd hand ps3s