Hi there
Just as a possible bit of help i bought mine in August last year (7 months ago)
She is a stunning
57 plate 3 door in Black
68,000 miles (now on 71,000)
1 owner from new
Completely standard/original
Full dealer history
Full Mot plus bit of Tax
Leather
Sat nav
Zenons
Parking sensors
Cruise control
iPod dock in armrest
18" polished monza's in lovely condition
New Michelin ps3 tyres fitted
Recent brakes all round etc etc
Paid £7,300 for her, guy had it up for 8k but was collecting his new Golf R that week so just made him a cash offer on the spot of £7,200 and he begrudgingly agreed to £7,300
Felt a little sluggish at first but diagnosed as torn Diverter valve (£40) and goes like a stabbed rat again now
As said already deffinately go for a late fully loaded model as its the better later engine and obviously a newer car
Around 7k should get you a properly sorted 2007/2008 Gti if you avoid garages and aim for private sellers
Was considering selling mine on but im undecided again now