Buy an Ibiza Cupra instead - cheaper and better looking but with comparible build quality and the same engine etc. Half leather, climate etc as standard too.

Contrary to vaughant's comments, the Golfs don't handle well standard. Bit like a boat so you might be right at home. And they aren't gutsy - I averaged 42mpg on a run to Edinburgh and back last summer. Usual avg was 34-36mpg.

Mileage shouldn't be an issue - my Ibiza was circa 100k and had ran 220bhp on a KO3s for most of it's days and it's was perfect.