As long as it's not rusted, hasn't had a past pink milkshake, and doesn't have other serious issues, I think you're doing fine. The way I look at it is, first, what else would you rather have for your $8k? Also, being realistic, any used car at $8k is going to require maintenance too.

These things are old and starting to show it. The days where you find them as daily drivers having almost no maintenance are starting to end. I've put money into mine too and considered a 4th gen. But I knew what mine is and figured better to go with the devil I do know. Values for clean 3rd gens have seemingly started to rise. Not a super compelling reason to make any decision but knowing it can help the mental exercise.