Just stumbled upon this post...
I'm the said guy who's built the favorit. There is a slightly more indepth version of the build here if you are technically minded, (dumbed it down for the Skoda lot.. lol!):
http://www.diyelectriccar.com/forums/showthread.php?t=58958@mightymullet, car choice is subjective... badge snobbery aside, there is little to choose from between a Mk1 golf and Mk2 Skoda Favorit, spot the difference?:
Well, not much apart from the build quality that is... Mk2 Favorit, (QC by 90's VW by the way...) will easily last 20+ years rust free if looked after, vs. Mk1 golf, (70's VW QC, better like rust!!) rotted out sills after only 7 years from new on my brothers 1980 example...
As for Escort & Cortina in the same sentance as touch of class... Maybe the Mk1's aside (although the build quality was still shocking) you've got to be kidding right?
How can a VW guy suggest such a thing!!?? Like I said, subjective..