What do you think is better for my first car, a 2000 Volkswagen Golf GL Hatchback or a 2000 Volkswagen Jetta?

You haven't said which trim level of the Jetta your considering; for the moment, I'm going to assume that the Jetta is also a GL model.

It will depend upon what you need in a car; the Jetta has a much larger trunk, slightly more room in the rear seat, but is longer and heavier than the Golf. The Golf will be easier to park, as its about 10" shorter in length, is slightly lighter about 150 lbs and the hatchback can be useful in transporting bulker items. In addition, because its slightly lighter, according to US government figures, the Golf stops shorter from 60 mph and all other factors being equal, might get slightly better fuel economy and might accelerate slightly faster again due to the lighter weight factor.

Being a GL model, it doesn't have a lot of accessories that are known to cause problems; no cruise control, no power windows (a problem on VW's of this period), no auto climate control and still has power locks and keyless remote. Radio is basic, but you can replace it with a aftermarket radio that is Ipod friendly for very little money.

The 2.0 liter 4 cylinder motor is neither smooth, nor powerful, but at least it will run a long time on the cheapest regular gas you can put in it. The only thing is that you need to check the oil regularly, as its famous for high oil consumption. Common oil consumption for the 2.0 liter 4 cylinder, non turbo motor is between 1200-1500 miles per quart of oil. This means you need to check the oil level frequently and add as needed.

Avoid the automatic transmission, it has had its share of problems and they weren't worked out until late 2003. Even with all the updates, this transmission isn't as long lived as the later model units.

Personally, I think the Golf is the nicer driving car, but is noisier inside than the Jetta. Both are decent driving and reasonably reliable models if they are base model units with a manual transmission. And, unlike many other cars of the 2000 model year, ABS and side air bags are standard.

Hope this helps, a car nut.

I recommend you stay away from aging VWs unless you're rich. Maintenance costs will destroy you.