I've had mine for 10+ years, BUT I have done very little mileage in it.
Yes brakes are the same as all other mk3's and are a bit shit.
Anything later than 2006 will be extortionate to tax,
I can't really comment on being easy to work on as I've never had to work on anything in the engine bay other than service items.
​​​​​all it's ever needed it the 10years I've had mine is a rear wheel bearing.
It's needed a wheel refurb for years though as they are shit.