Mk2 16v is the best all round golf up to and including the Mk4, not owned a Mk5 and on so cant talk about them.
3 door is best by far, I suggest owning one before they all go for silly money
As you know it takes the abf engine/box very easily and can be upgraded with Mk3 bits like mounts, wide track and brakes all sourced from scrapper mk3's
Best bit is that it is very light and hits the 100bhp per ton rule and feels fast for a hatchback with predictable handling.
Worst bit is finding good parts without paying scene tax and reliability of old electrics.
I loved my 16v money pits more than any other golf so far, very satisfying but do need tinkering time applied regularly if used daily
If you can keep the Mk3 as a donor you are sorted
