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You really also need to consider the running costs - not just fuel, as for 'premium' (read expensive to buy and luxury/fast) brands, they come with a very expensive way of keeping them in good nick if you maintain them via a main dealership.
Don't forget that a Skoda is essentially a cheap Audi. Skips on wheels they are not. As others have said, other brands can offer decent performance, handling, kit, etc for either much less for a car of the same age, or a much newer one - possibly still under warranty - for the same money.
Note also that those premium makes will cost more to insure and often come with very expensive consumables - BMWs, for example, often come shod on runflat tyres which not only give a harsher ride (never mind the big wheels and wide low profile tyres anyway) but cost an absolute fortune to replace, and are rarely repairable either, especially when run after a flat is detected.
Low profile tyres are also far more susceptible to irrepairable damage and blowouts than more sensible tyre profiles around the 50 mark and higher.
A former colleague did a similar thing as you, buying a second hand Jag but then scrimped on the tyres after seeing how much a replacement set cost using a middle-range or better make. He bought ditchfinders as his next replacement set to save money, which means the grip in the wet is poor.
Work out what you can affor across the anticipated ownership period, allowing for all costs, including allowances for replacement parts (look them up on owners' forums when when things are likely to be needed and the cost), general servicing, insurance, tyres (including allow wheel damage repair.replacement from kerbing/potholes) tax and fuel.
Bear in mind that cars originally sold before March 2017 will have different VED rates to afterwards, and so higher performing exec cars may come with a VED penalty, especially those originally costing over £40k.
When you've made a list of the specific cars (not engines), then start doing test drives, as this can make a HUGE difference as to your opinion about them, including what trim/engine spec you feel is a good fit. You may be surprised as to what is worth it and what isn't. Unfortunately, the pandemic has meant getting test drives is harder and may not be free everywhere.
DON'T rush your decision. This will be the second biggest purchase you'll make, other than a home.
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