So my final quote.... the GTI DSG is slightly cheaper cash price (no options) vs the 128TI with some options (most of which correct the lack of standard items, but it does include HUD too). Golf is a thousand quid cheaper.
The GFV on both is very similar, hardly worth talking about.
BMW works out two quid a month cheaper on PCP.
Two quid is two quid to a Yorkshireman! lol
Of course you don't need the options, the things I added I am sure I could live without and I am sure some of you would choose paint and/or wheels as well - I didn't on either - both are white on 18's. Like I care really.
Just need one last thing.... to test drive both, although I'm already thinking about how much Jamaican Ginger Cake I can buy with my 2 quid a month saving lol
PS in the end, both of these two are marginally more expensive than what I have been paying on my 17 plate Mk7.5 GTD. Which as a tight g1t I'm happy with :-)
PPS I had a look, second hand M135i's with decent options and low mileage are about the same cash price as my 128TI spec. Just don't try and have one on BMW PCP - its 10.9% APR!! Ouch.