What car should I buy?

[Guest stevewright]

I'm gonna buy a new (used) car. My student banger is not what she used to be (no wait, she is, but I've driven 20,000 miles since I got her!)

I'm looking to spend £3,000-£3,500 and want it no more than 5 years old, and preferably of the "medium, family hatchback" variety.

This week, I have been mostly doing some research on Vauxhall Astras (my parents have had them almost since I was born, so I know them quite well :) ) but then again my parents have one...

I have also been looking at Ford Escorts, but have been so far most tempted by one of these:

FIAT Brava 80 16V SX 1.2L

Once you've all calmed down from laughing, I DO want a 1.2L as I'm gonna commute with it and I'm cheap. And environmentally friendly.

Found one in Birmingham (where I live). £3000 from dealer. V reg (as the picture shows :wink: ). 35,000 miles.

Any thoughts or suggestions? Reliability and the like? Any one know anything about cars?