Hi Just bought a white 3 door F reg golf 16v

...Had one a few years ago and regretted selling it, it did have a few problems tho so was probably right decision. I found this one on ebay 220560552089 and bought seeing as it was very cheap...i know it seems like it has a couple of issues aswell but hopefully not to problematic, my old one has similar gear probs and a golf specialist sorted that out very well.
The heating problem is a bit more of a concern though, does anyone know why this might happen and if its a cheap fix? I live 500 miles away from where the guy lives and he says i wont be able to drive it that distance without it overheating. Is it something worth taking a risk on? I know my old one got very hot too but didn't cause any problems...
Also if anyone knows the car then let me know!
All being well cant wait to get a golf back on the road again...this time it will be my toy too!
Thanks, speak later!