Three years ago my truck's engine blew on a Thursday, and I was in desperate need to find something, since I was starting a new job on Monday. I decided I'd buy a "commuter car". I had a Jetta 15 years ago, and really loved that car. I found a clean, low mileage 2001 VW GTI with the VR6 engine. This has to be one of the hottest little sleeper cars there is. Also a nicely outfitted car loaded with heated leather seats, power everything, 4 wheel discs, moonroof, etc. My wife and I occasionally take it to Denver to see family, and the ride and handling on a highway trip is pleasant
Factory specs say 170 BHP, and is pretty quick stock. I've been considering an older Porsche for awhile, but I keep thinking I should hang onto this. It would be excellent project car. The Euro car shop I bought it from has done tuning on the VR6s, including new computer chip, new exhaust and intake, with dramatic results. And I've seen some GTIs that have been supercharged. Doing some Googling looks like you could get a lot more HP out of this engine and still keep it pretty streetable.