If you're getting a Corolla, I'd try and get a 1-2 year old Corolla Levin but this all depends on your budget of course. Or is it even possible to get a 2003 Corolla Sportivo? They go for around 25k second hand.
This is assuming you want the hatch however.
Mazda 3 is a nice choice, adn I think that the resale values should be fine. Those mid 1990's V6 Astina's can still fetch 14k if that's an indication.