As others have said, it depends what you want from a car. But if you like driving quickly round fast A and B roads, then the Clio is amazing! I didn't boot mine on test drive and thought it was quick, but I came out a 1.2. When I picked it up and used the revs I was amazed! Handles so well too. The Golf is a bit more grown up I think. If you want serious power gains then turbo is the way to go. If you want driving fun then the 197 is the way to go! Used prices have dropped a little, I got my '09 58 plate 197 for £12k in Jan. It's got bluetooth and cornering lights over standard, so i'm sure you'll be able to find an '08 for around what you want to pay. The RX8 will be quicker in a line, but in the corners no. They use a lot of fuel and oil too, being a rotary engine.