I've heard VW still isn't up to par yet. A couple of my friends have had some problems. I was considering a GTI as well and decided against it because of it's reputation. I think VW makes really cool cars that perform great but not great to own. The Accord is a bigger car and will not perform the way you are used to with the VW but offer the reliability. You should test drive a Civic SI or the recently discontinued Prelude (used) if you want a better performing Honda. Good price for the 98 Accord. Don't keep an unreliable car it's not worth being stuck on a highway late at night or late for an important meeting.

Good luck.