If I had to have a petrol one again and it has to have PAS I'd go for a 1.6i, had one once and it was very responsive and a bit more economical than the 16 carb.
The petrol ones always seem to ride and drive better than the diesels, but I can put up with that in exchange for the economy.
If you fancy a diesel auto? my mate shaun will soon have another one for sale.(thats if he can find another tree to put the engine in with)