I think it's time to go...

[dubbed]

Coralon, refresh kit will be considered but that task alone is going to be a $1000~ job in itself.

balkanac, I've toyed with the idea of an E46 M3 but figured parts will just be as bad (although I can get excellent pricing on Genuine BMW parts). Oh, and wouldn't dare go near a MkV!

Sounds like you bought someones car who couldnt afford to maintain it. 80% of your list is maintenance.

Just unlucky you've footed the bill for it all and its left a bad taste in your mouth.

80% is maintenance - are you joking or bad at maths?

It is unlucky I agree, and to rub more salt in the wounds I've had paint flaking on the bonnet and front bumper.

[Manaz]

None of that stuff would be unusual for any make of car.

Yes, there's sometimes a premium on VW parts (be smart, don't buy local if you can avoid it, there are people here who can help you with that). You'd have had largely the same issues no matter what car you had once it hit 100,000km or thereabouts.