Astra Vs. Focus Automatics

Hi there,
Thinking of buying a oldish 2000-2003 automatic astra/focus, not a very experienced driver I had a Vauxhall Agila which was awful and a VW Up which had an horrid Automatic gearbox with no power. I had to get rid of my Up! and now am looking to buy an Astra/Focus, as I say i'm not very experienced and wondered if they were good reliable cars and which one (in your opinions) were the best.
I need something that is roomy (i'm 6'1), and something that is pretty easy to park.

Thanks