I've just bought a decent MK3 8v for ?2K, after a bit of haggling.
It drives well, i like torque of the 8v engine.
I had a Mk2 16v, which was a good drive, you had to rev it harder to get the power. Both good cars - the Mk3 feels more solid. Look in autotrader, dont rely on the website, the magazine is more upto-date with its adverts.