I spent 4 years working at a VW dealer. They're actually really nice cars especially on the road. HOWEVER, when they need repair hand over your wallet and bend over. Especially anything newer than around '99. Stuff falls apart, trim peels and everything is run through a computer. There can also be parts availability issues. The only way I'd ever buy one is new and get rid of it when the warranty was about to run out.

As much as I hate to say it, the Hondas aren't bad. They got their reputation for a reason. I've also had Mazdas for 15 years and haven't had any issues. Stay away from the Protege...I've known several people who have replaced multiple engines. My Miatas have been bulletproof (ok, maybe not your style, but they're a blast to drive and autocross) and the 6 I had for 2 years before the truck came into my life was very comfortable to drive and no issues. IIRC, it didn't have the greatest gas mileage, but I had the V6 and a heavy foot. I know I'm going to get flamed for this one, but as a daily driver/beater-type car, look at a Cavalier. They get good gas mileage and are damn near impossible to kill. They're also pretty basic when it comes time for repair. Just pull all the emblems off

 

Narrowed it down to either an early 2000 TDI jetta, or an early 2000 Accord coupe. Gonna get moving with the jeep sell, and go test drive a couple cars to see which one I like better. Leaning towards to VW due to diesel reliability and the general look of the car over the accord. But who knows.

 

That would be my choice.