hi swampyrn...you have a good budget so should be able to pick up a nice fairly low milage car, if they have been serviced regularly they are pretty bomb proof, you say you want a manual, try both manual and auto before you spend your money as the manual box can be a bit notchy at times and takes some getting used to, the auto also actually gives slightly better mpg, best of luck with your search...by the way gooner here was at wembley to see us beat your hometown team...(after a right scare though, did themselves proud...)