Well didnt go for a VR6 and took your advise and avoided the auto got myself a 1996 16v gti in dragon green and bog standard.
Few problems, the abs sensor was knackedred on the back passenger side and there is a problem with the clutch. It sometimes cruches when going into reverse when stopped. Also first is a slight problem. But sometimes it goes into gear easily.
Now the car is bitting with the pedal out about half way, and also i have bled the whole system and there is no air. Car feels fine when moving.
Could this be the gearbox being low on oil? or can you adjust this?
Also power steering is making a strange noise when going from side to side. can this be the belt needing tightened?
Apart from this the car is in really good condition the bodywork is spotless. It also goes really well and has full history and low miles of just 83K.