How far do we want to take this argument.
I recall the vln racers, and the tts beating the rwd BMW's.
I do agree on track in good hands the 135i will be much quicker, but most drivers are average. And if learning how to drive is high up your list, do go karting, much cheaper, alot more fun, f1 rivalling g-forces also in the race spec karts. Can't beat it for pound per fun ratio.
I appreciate sporty golfs are expensive especially with options, but last time I was in the BMW dealership their cars are even pricier. 320d 34k, so I'd imagine a 135i well specced must be in the 40k range.
At the end of the day, both cars take a very different approach, but I wouldnt be able to say that one is better than the other. They are just different.
As for the image/badge argument, I think that's silly, as BMW's, vw's and Audi's are common as muck.
If we start that discussion, Porsche will trump em all.