For £1500, you'll probably only be able to buy from a private seller mainly, as that'll be where the good deals are. Try checking on autotrader.co.uk for some good cars. I bought my first car privately, and got a good deal. Just make sure all the paperwork is in order, you're comfortable that the seller is genuine, and make sure you go to the home address of the seller. Sounds strange, but if they want to do it away from the house, eg in a layby, walk away, it's a sign the car or seller is dodgy. Mike Brewer has some good tips on being used. And there's loads of Corsa's for around your budget, so if you're not comfortable with buying one car, just walk away. They'll be plenty of others. Make sure to check the basics, so MOT, leaks under the car, the engine turns over well etc, and ALWAYS do a test drive, but also check for badly done repairs, new areas of paint in the engine bay etc, as they can be signs of crash damage.