Help me Decide - Yaris or Scion xa?

[ptadam22]

I currently own a 95 e36 m3, which is an amazingly fun car. However, with a car like that it is often a love have relationship depending on what needs to be fixed and what breaks. I average about 22 mpg with premium so I am ready to make the switch to a newer, more reliable, and more economical car.

I have narrowed it down to the scion xa and the yaris, but they seem very similar so it is difficult for me to decide. For those of you that may have looked into, or tested both, what swayed your decision? I am trying to budget about $8k so with that in mind would I get more from one or the other? I used to have 2 miatas so I definitely can enjoy and appreciate small lightweight underpowered cars as long as they are a little sporty and have a little fun factor in the handling department. Does the Yaris clearly get better average mpg compared to the scion? Has anyone bought a salvaged one with pictures and receipts proving the work that was done? Thanks for all your help in advance.