1k hatchback challenge

[exelero]

Hey guys.
I currently own two cars, a Mondeo from 08 and. Saab Convertible from 01. Mondeo is diesel and it’s easily the best car I’ve ever had both reliability and comfort wise, I got it when my daughter was born and it did the family duties with ease. I work very close from home so diesel is not justified. Got the Saab to have some convertible experience, but it wore off so time for both of them to go.
I’m looking at hatchbacks for replacement and on my current shortlist is MK2 Focus and Mk8 Civic. Both petrol.
I like the looks of the Civic, the questions is does it handle better than the Focus? I’m guessing they would be pretty close to each other in this regard.

What would you buy? Budget say 1500 tops but I’m leaning more towards a sub grand car.
Thoughts?

[ZX10R NIN]

The Focus is the best handling car BUT the best car is the one that's in the best condition/long MOT, with some sort of history/receipts at this price point, also look at the Astra.

[Jamescrs]

Id say buy on condition of what you have in front of you, I do enjoy shopping for hot hatches for use as cheap track cars but always buy on condition rather than make and model.