You are prbably better off with a mk3 as it will hopefully be more reliable for you and cost you less money to maintain. I drive a mk2 16v so i think that is the best but it is a constent money pit to maintain it as there is always something else you want to do to it to make it better.
It really depends on the finances, as a daily driver and being a young driver you will be able to keep a mk3 running without too much hassle.
Mk2's definately look the best though if you want a retro look and you want to be different to your mates.