you'd want more for your money if you were spending that much i just dont think there are any jap cars old or new that offer a good all round package. 40k i'd go a bmw e46 m3 (if you want a straight 6) or audi b6 s4 (if you want a v8)without thinking twice coz it has everything luxury, performance, looks, quality etc. if you find a jap car for less than 40K with as much spec and goodies then by all means go for it
that just depends on -
1) how much of a lemon you buy
2) how useless you are with tools