What about a 1.8 hatch, still be quicker than the astra and a good base for a vvc head swop should you want more power. They are frugal little engines for the performance they give and handle a treat.
This looks like it might be worth a look, only 22k miles, monogram colour, 2004 and a hatch!
With a bit of bartering you might even get them down to the price of the red 180 youve seen.
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ZS Turbo!!*cough* (diesel)
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