Daimo

16v 2.0 Mk engine is underpowered, in an overweight chassis. 135bhp or something lame.

Mk3 is the worst golf, go Mk2 old skool, or Mk4 GTi.

VR6 is the engine to have, but don't expect to be blown away, your still looking at 7 secs 0-60 and 140-145 top end. As said, thirsty engine, and although its an ok engine, for a 2.8, its nothing to shout about.

Mk4, TDi130 is a good car, plenty of torque, not all that fast, but good on juice/power compromise. 1.8T is ok, but many have been thrashed, find a good one and it'll be the best lump.

I'd look at the 8v Mk2 GTi. Engines are only just starting to loosen up at 80+k, light weight, good chassis, average engine, but plenty of low down torque.