318ti in snow?

[2-D]

Hi, I've been reading up on the 318ti quite a bit and have to say this site is awesome! I commute to my college so I've been looking for a new DD for quite a while. I was looking at VW GTI's but then a 318ti caught my eye while I was online.

Description: 1996, 102,000 mi, $5,500, black exterior, beige cloth interior, 5 speed, power windows/locks, traction control, am/fm cassette radio. No fog lights. What model is it? I know it's hard to tell without a pic, sorry.

After a little research, I still want some input from you guys (esp. people who live in snow states) in determining if it's right for me. A couple of questions, handling in snow? Maintenance costs? (I don't think I'll be doing much of the work). How quick is it stock? How much potential does this little guy have with minor mods? Problems that will come up? Sorry for the newbie questions (I know you're sick of them). Thank you for any and all replies.