as an ex ford mechanic, you cant go wrong with a fiesta
easy to work on, good fuel consumption, and not to many electrics (expensive on all cars)
second choice vw polo or golf excellent build quality :-)
fiat :-( cam belt MUST be replaced at 60.000, h/gasket usualy fails at this milage too, also the rear radious arms. good nippy engine and fuel consumption.
try to stay away from cars with a lot of electrical gadgets until you can afford it?
find a good mechanic to go with you to inspect the car
£20 should grease his palms enough
:-)
the choice is yours