I personally bought an Audi 80 as my first car just because I love it.
When I had to decide between the Civic or Golf I would go with the golf.Its a super relaiable car if you take care of the basic needs of a car.I am working in a VW mechanic shop so I see many Golf Mk2 that are in great condition.
But I think you should get a normal Golf Mk2 not the GTI.I would buy a normal golf and then try to get a GIT engine and swap them.Its quite easy since they both use the same mountings etc.