Anything Toyota, if you want something thats going to last, go toyota. A lot of people will say Honda, but thats becasue EVERYONE has hondas, they have proven their durability. In short, your probably going to want to stay with japanese cars, lots of cheap parts.
+1 for corolla
-1 talon
A first car is something that you wont mind if it gets bruised, you also dont want to put much money into it. Dont buy known problem cars like volks or eagle or any 4 cylinder chrysler. Stay away, Ill get flamed for saying it, but be warned, especially if your new to the car world.
good luck with your search