If you are looking for a short term cheap solution then consider Zafira A ,MOTed for the time span you need it for .
We just dropped a Zafira B 1.6 petrol from the fleet because no one used it .
Zafira A 2.0DTI is used a fair bit .(astra G parts ,so cheaper than Zafira B/Astra H parts)
factory undersealing and rust proofing on Zaf A is much better than B
however , don't dismiss the 1.6 petrol engine either way , if you are using it to transport many people or lots of junk then you won't be driving like a bank robber get-away driver anyway
Zafira A 2.0 DTi whilst slow by TB's standards of driving
is robust
1.6 petrol can return 35MPG 1.8 is more thirsty ,2.0 DTI near 40MPG
Zafira B 1.9 eat gearboxes
comon issues with 1.6 and 1.8 petrol is PCV valve (inside the rocker cover) failure ,causes rough running ,dipstick and oil cap suck air when removed if the PCV is duff.
ultimately though , finding the right car ,local, at the right price and CHECKING IT OVER WELL is the way to go