I've not driven a mk2 golf with PAS but do drive quite a few modern cars through work (hire cars).
Lots have PAS - and I can't abide it!
Sure it's great for parking, but I find it unnerving at speed - especially on the M-way, as I can't 'feel' the road.
every type of car has a different PAS system.
the Nissan Bluebird we had for S2N2003 had fingertip touch steering at any speed. the 827 i had for S2N2004 (and probably 5) has slightly harder PAS with speed control, but the steering feels extremely light at over a ton. My MGTF has superb PAS, firms up just enough at high speed, is light enough around town, and leaves me in touch with its front wheels at all times.
at the end of the day - every car is different.
i did go out in a mates PAS Mk2, and although it wasn't as heavy as mine, it wasn't exactly as light as the modern PAS cars can be.
i still love my old NON PAS mk2 though. its like a work out everytime i take her out.