a MK4 beater...haha if you say so. When I'm out of college I'll be looking in the 20-25 area like you, lately I've been thinking of a MK4 or an EVO. Of course my MK3 will be faster and nicer than any MK4 I will be willing to pay for, and the EVO 10 coming out seems pretty nice, I also have a thing for 2500 cummins diesels and powerstrokes.
I'd say getting the car and taking care of it, working on it, and driving it right brings just as much pride Joe. You're right my statement can't be held to every case. There are kids that buy cars and dont change the oil for a year and wonder why their car seized, and there are also kids who get cars and treat them right.