Last thing I would do if had financial difficulties, would be buying another Japanese car like the ones you mentioned. I sat and counted how much I spent on my old GTIR and it came to the price of my current Zed. I think if you want it to be financially safe, then you would be best going for a wee run around. Best thing I ever did was buy an old 1993 clio for £800, insurance £200, and £25 in fuel lasted me a month. For 2 years it allowed me to focus my money on other things, get my bills and outgoings sorted and eventually let me get back into the game, affording the Zed
All the best with your decision mate, hope it works out well for ya!