Hi there chaps, new here as you can see.

Currently have a 182 Cup which I am growing out of (even though it has been to hoot to own) and I am possibly looking at getting a GTI (Edition 30 preferably) or a Astra VXR (don't shoot me

).
I have a budget of around 18k, but want to spend some money on mods too (always been a big mod man with all my cars

). I have done quiet a bit of research on both cars and can see that the Ed30 gets a lot bigger gains for less money over the VXR, but haven't ruled out a Stage 3 one yet.
So few questions if you don't mind?
1. (Without sounding chavvy

) Who has the quickest GTI on here (acceleration wise, 0-60, 1/4 mile etc) and how much did it cost them to get to current stage of tuning? Reason I ask is that I often do track days/1/4 mile days with my mate (who currently has a 300bhp VXR), so need to not be lagging behind anymore

2. What sort of effect on grip do these modded monsters get? Don't mind having traction issues to a certain point, but don't want to be spinning all the way through the gears..

3. Do many of chaps go to track days/1/4 mile days etc?
Sorry to go on, but the thought of upgrading to the Golf is getting more and more tempting and with it being a great all rounder, will be nice to have a comfy ride for a change too. Oh and obviously wipe the smile of my mates face if poss..

Cheers,
Tom