I'd say overall the pug would be a better buy.
I've had an rs2000 engined cabriolet and it's a very strong lump and as said quite economical but I'd say no better than the pug with it's extra gear.
Fords do rust badly and that was one of the worst examples of it,very often they can look mint on the outside but rotten structurally.
Don't be fooled into thinking the cam chain lasts forever either,my mates had one go years ago on the mk5 version and the car was a dog so it ended up owing him about £5000!!!!
To me,the pug handles better,is faster,just as reliable and rusts less.
Plus points for the ford are slightly cheaper parts and marginally better electrics(remember fusebox issues),if you get a good one also should hold it's value very well.