MK5 GOLF - Engine / model advice

[00161wj]

Looking at a MK5 Golf. I'm 18 so cant afford to insure a gti etc. Therefore i've been looking at a 1.6 and a 1.9 tdi.
I work for Audi and the 1.6 A3 seems sluggish and crap quite frankly with the 1.9 tdi being quite nippy. However ive looked at the stats for the Golf and they say the 1.6 is quicker. Anyone had any experience with the golfs?
Also which model do i choose? I'd like AC etc and certainly require lecky windows and alloys.

[DomRS]

Are you looking to buy new or used? I have not driven either of those two models but I would probably go for the 1.9 TDi. However, I would recomend having a look at a 2.0 GT TDI if it is in your price range and the insurance is not too high, it has good performance, good economy and the spec is good.

[00161wj]

I'm looking to buy second hand. Cost etc isnt an issue as i know where to get hold of them cheap. Cant insure a gttdi.
Just need info on the models specified please.

[golfdriver]

While I havent driven a mk5 golf, I have driven 1.6 and TDI mk4's. The TDI is a much nicer car to drive, with plenty of low down torque, while the petrol is noisy and requires revving to put out any real power. The TDI will return 60mpg driven gently, 45mpg+ at 90ish on the mway. The petrol on the hand manages 40mpg driven gently and 30 when pushed.
The torque is definately what makes the cars pleasant and easy to drive, and below 3k rpm, the TDI is certainly quicker than my VR6. The other thing is that the TDI's tend to be much better trimmed as SE's, including better sound proofing, engine undershields etc - all in all a much better vehicle.