Absolutely James, I agree with Jim. Go for it and help bring the so called and rumoured 'average driver age' down ... and help make it a young man's car too! As Jim's sons are doing.
Find yourself a beauty, which, given your budget, should be eminently do-able. As Jim suggests, take your time, and maybe test drive a few options; but always keep one eye on the all important history which, in fairness, you would be doing with any car you buy.
Good luck,
Rowley.