I've driven both - own a 1.6 and was given a 2.0 as a courtesy car. The diesel surprised me - much better than I thought it would be, I'd be happy with either so for my money it comes down to the extra outlay versus economy argument - what is more important to you. As for colour, I too would have gone for the green as personal preference, but wife wanted silver. Very happy with that choice. The beige (gold :) ) is definitely not for me the worst colour IMHO. I'd agree about the air con - a must as far as I'm concerned.