What type of car should I buy?

[MrsSnape]

A year ago I had to give up my beloved Corsa due to a huge MOT bill and strict budget.

I've missed it so much and I always said that when I got another car it would be something bigger like an Astra or a Focus.

I've very recently come into a bit of money, to be precise...Tax Credits have finally paid me what they owe me (I love my MP!) so I now have upto £1k to spend on a car.

I've been looking today and saw a Punto which was nice but a bit on the small side...I'd like something like a Vectra but there doesn't seem to be many around.

I also like Mondeos but I'm worried they'll be TOO big for someone who has only been driving 4 years and who has never driven anything bigger than a Corsa (and who hasn't driven at all for a year)

So...any recommendations?

Hi - you can get a small book from newsagents which has the car values in it so you can look up and get an idea of how much you should be paying for any car - I think they're Parker's guide and What car guide - usually with the mags.
Then - I wouldn't buy a Fiat, Peugeot, or Renault - ime best reliability comes from Ford, Toyota (Yaris? - roomy inside and good engines), Honda. Test drive as many as you can to get a feel for what you really want. Do you know someone who knows about cars?- take them with you if at all possible to look it over.
Good luck - and great about your windfall hope you find something really nice.