the 110bhp engines not bad, i got me one in 2001 and its still goin strong.
as said, its not as tuneable as the later models but it still has a decent amount of grunt in it!
gotta get one witch has had the cam belt done though, it can get pricey.
also check (if you can) that the window seats/plastic bits have been changed to the metal ones.... mine went (1 was on warranty

) the other wasnt

) and they get pricey.
look forward to 50-55 mpg

me and the missus do quite alot of miles between us (she drives it more, i got a works van

)
and it works out v. economical.
that is until i put 18's on and well basically became a self confessed dubnut

good luck with what ever 1 you choose
(and breathe.

....my longest post me thinks?!?!)