You've helped me with engine choice now what about the ride comfort? I know from a 105 test drive of an hour that the Mk 2 handling is streets ahead of the Mk 1 but it struck me that the ride comfort was only slightly better.

I know that slow speed ride comfort is largely dependent on the type of tyre fitted (which is why I have Michelin Primacy on my Mk 1) but how much does it change between steel wheels and alloys? Thinking of a 140 Ambiente, I would welcome your views on ride comfort.

And the last thing is - how much harder is the ride on the estate compared with the hatchback?

Mk1 deffo comfier than Mk2 IMHO. Had Mk1 vRS and now have Mk2 Elegance 2.0TDI. Seats for me are too hard in the new car. Ride wise the Elegance is a better ride than the vRS but then it doesn't have sports suspension.

Thinking of a 140 Ambiente

Ride comfort on standard suspension is very good. Kind of off topic but I'm really glad I spent the extra on the Elegance. Would especially miss the arm rest and cruise control if I'd gone for an Ambiente and the wheels look better.