If 8k is your budget, I advise asking yourself a question.
Q: Do I want to replace the car for something bigger in the future?
If YES, go for a second-hand Fiesta, Toyota Aygo or Seat Ibiza.
If NO, invest your 8k in a second-hand Volvo S60. Bite the bullet with the road tax/fuel bill and relax. You're in the safest reasonably-priced second hand car EVER MADE. ( Side Impact Protection System. It saved my life ).
Hope this helps.
Regards, Rich ( ex-Vehicle Delivery guy ).