TS,
Between d Focus n d Jazz, get d Jazz unless ur pretty confident u can handle d maintenance of d Ford. D Jazz is kinda funky in terms of design n excellent in terms of practicality but dull in d driving department. If u still wanna get it, try to look for 1 tat as full service history especially for d gearbox.

But if ur really a motoring noob, best to settle wit a new car n let d warranty n SC handle d maintenance. Wait for d new Myvi or Persona (if u wan practicality), try d Neo (nice drive but seriously for singles), n if u can stretch ur budget a bit, consider d Fiesta (very good handling).

Cant compare d TDCi wit d older 2008 1.8/2.0. D turbo diesel's torque curve would easily eat d petrol burners in terms of throttle respond.