I took the running boards off yesterday. It looks MUCH better and the extra clearance is great. Also, the power antenna motor was no bueno, so I disconnected it under the front passenger side fender lining. No more ugly noise when I start the truck!
I had an '01 Golf 2.0 in Navy. It was a great car, but it was getting expensive to fix and I was in University. I miss it now, though, it was zippy, small, and a joy to drive. I really wish I had the TDI version but I couldn't find one at the time.