If you can't afford to run the car, you're not going to enjoy it. Tedious practicalities may get in the way of emotion, but that's the best way. Always get an insurance quote before you buy, work out the cost of servicing every year, add up any interest payments and throw in road tax and maybe a couple of tyres. That way you'll know exactly what your car will cost and there won't be any nasty surprises. Don't forget depreciation.
Some cars fall gently in price, while others shed their value like dandruff.
You might be surprised. Work out the total ownership cost for three years. Choose something that depreciates slowly. Ask a dealer what a service costs. If you're buying on finance, don't forget to add interest costs.