What is the Best First Car?

I have about 6 weeks until I purchase my first car and I'm looking on this site http://www.carcomplaints.com/ at complaints owners have had about their cars and I'm already scaring myself from purchasing certain vehicles. I'm trying to pick between a 2003-2005 Ford Focus (though I've read this car has some major issues that can come up with its engine and at times people having issues with the car accelerating by itself, which scares me), 2003-2005 Ford Taurus, 2002 - 2004 Pontiac (any of them), or a 2000 Honda Civic (which seems to be the car with the least amount of issues, but will cost the most), or a 2000 - 2002 Honda Accord. I have a max budget of $3,300, though I would be willing to go up to $3,500 if I go with the Honda Civic if I find a reliable one. From this list, what do you suggest? Also is there any car that is not on this list that you suggest?

Added (1). I just got my license this past Friday, so thankfully I'm a license driver now!

Toyota corolla, definitely. Sure it has a set of problems but they arent lying in wait for you like those other cars you mentioned. They are mostly neglect and fear that gets them in a state of disrepair, so for that money I can tell you, I would buy and fix up one before those.
It doesn't have the design issues either. Sure, it's not a ball of fire on race day, but you are trying to obey the laws and get where you are going. Your maintenance schedule can be figured out and budgeted and even repaired at the dealer if you wish. Since thats who sells the parts that last. Simple, no screwy stories, insane special tools, difficulties with nomenclature, just get it fixed ahead of time thats how you beat the japanese car. Run the higher quality fuel brand, not grade. Reap the rewards in not changing plugs so often. Change gaskets, or pumps and belts, you already know what it eats, feed it.
They employ plenty of Americans and have plants here in the US, They do more for you than others I won't mention. But you pick what you like thats what the real thing is, when you get in and start it, and it does what you want, then you have found it.
And maybe you have to drive something newer and have all wheel drive. Well, then you have another set of parts to replace, and a different set of friends to make. I would wrap this up by saying, have it checked by a tech before you buy, and use the info to negotiate the price.

Honda Civic, since it has the least amount of issues as you mentioned. I personally own one and they're right. I actually got a good deal on it, bought it many years ago for $3000 with only 90,000 original miles (it's a 98, same gen as the 2000)
It's ok to pay more, as long as you get a decent vehicle. Better than paying less on a unreliable heap of junk.

The best first car for anyone is a small pickup. Big chance your gonna bend it at some time and the truck is far cheaper and easier to repair

Honda for sure

Toyota Corolla
Honda Civic
Toyota Camry
Honda Accord