A car for my needs...?

Question:
Hey guys,
I currently have an ancient fiesta, it goes fine but is costing more and mroe to maintain, is not fantastically efficient and has absolutely no features (oh how i would love no choke or a beeper to tell me my lights were still on!). So I am looking into getting a new car in the next few months and I am thinking about £5k on a second hand car.
I dont do all that many miles, my average day will consist of 20 miles or so work travel (with about 75% on 50mph roads, the rest in town), then possibly 10 miles of recreational travel (not in traffic). Is a diesel even worth considering for this, or will petrol be so close as to not be an issue? I quite fancy something a little bit nippy, not high insurance group stuff, but something at least pleasing! Size is not a big deal, id prefer not to stay on the very small fiesta type size.
I quite like the Ford Focus and it seems to be a popular choice. Torn a bit whether i should look for a TDCi, or a petrol (in which case, which one? I presume the 2.0 would be alot faster than a 1.6, but by how much and at what sacrifice?). Is there anything else anyone might suggest?
Thanks
Adam
Answers:
I was in the same sort of decisions as yourself. I would have prefered a Ford Focus. But I ended up with a Ford Fiesta.
I find checking out the Owners Club to find the truth about anything (issues, parts, prices, mpg).
For the Ford Focus ()
I do 30 miles to work and back, plus I tow a boat once a month (sailing races) on the back of my 1.25 zetec 51 plate Fiesta. It doesnt struggle.
Answers:
Thanks guys. I am trying to avoid a new car because i am fully aware of the depreciation and do not want to suffer it!
I have now had small cars for 7/8 years and want something a bit bigger. Had enough of having to mess about to fit in my golf clubs!
Adam
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