My rule has always been to stretch and go for something I can grow into and that can serve my needs down the road as well. The SID's for the Cessnas in Europe are going to be a problem you'll have to deal with, but everything else speaks in favour of them. They're easy to maintain, easy to rent out or put in a flying club and they're solid machines. In that case I'd go for a 172 - if you want to fly 2 people with luggage, you'll need a 4 place aircraft. 2 place can't actually load up and have much useful range at the same time.
But for the money you're willing to spend, I'd also look into an older fixed gear 182. They're great performers and have much more room than the 172. An older Bonanza is also an option. Solid planes. Have you looked at the Grumman AA5's? A lot of bang for the buck.
Last edited by AdamFrisch; 21st Apr 2014 at 02:46.