Peugeot 406 hdi vs Volvo v40 £2,000 - arnold2
Since my Corolla has been written off, one option (other than fixing the damage) is to get a run-about for the next 6 months ....

I noticed 406 hdi's going for less than £2,000 - any good ? Since I drive about 80 miles per day, diesel would help - how do I make sure it's not a 'clocked' taxi ?

Other option is a 1.8 S40 - petrol, of course - which one would be more reliable ?(don't want to end up with numerous breakdown's even if it's warranted for 6 months!)

Peugeot 406 hdi vs Volvo v40 £2,000 - Xileno {P}
Mondeo would be a safer option than either of these two at this money. Just make sure it's a petrol one and not the ancient rough and noisy 1.8TD. And also make sure the clutch is ok as these are a bit pricey to replace since the subframe needs to be disturbed.
Peugeot 406 hdi vs Volvo v40 £2,000 - MichaelR
Xileno is indeed correct that a Mondeo would be a safer option, but only if you are prepared to go for a petrol instead becuase the 1.8TD really is bad.

If it absolutely has to be a diesel, then go for the 406, not the Mondeo, but do be aware the 2.0 16v petrol engine in the Mondeo is easily capable of exceeding 40mpg on the Motorway.