It the later model that was galvanized, mk4 4 motion which isn't really a vr6........well not like the original vr6 which are all mk3's.
Totally agree about the highline, its not worth the extra. If you did want leather i wouldnt use highline leather either cos it s a bit crap. I'd try and find some colour concept recaro's for ease of fitment or just bang a set of cossie leathers in there and get the backs coverered.
Chains that rattle will normally require more than just a chain change, normally its tensioner and guides aswell. Seen as box has to come of to do it its well worth banging a cluth on them while your there.
Noisy water pumps are common, change that asap or you will likly end up doing.....

......Head gasket, normally start going around the front corner(o/s/f)

Plastic water housing on the side of the head often crack, again change it asap or head gaskets ahoy.

Awesome sounding car and personally i like the way they drive, its kinda smooth power delivery but they pull round the limiter easily.