94 Jetta GL / weak low range

Folks:

I came across a deal I could not pass up: a 94 Jetta 4 cyl GL, 5 speed w/ 125k

He replaced the timing belt around 95k and has serviced the vehicle every 3k. Here are my questions:

1. Any issues (e.g. systemic high mileage problems I should look for/correct)?

1. The A/C in inoperative. Could be just a recharge job or worse (leak, compressor, condenser, et al). Do these cars have a history of Bad A/C and if so, what is the usual cause?

2. The most unusual thing is the lack of row range torque. I had a 89 Jetta and enumerable manual transmissions and this is the first to exhibit this trait:

She really needs to be reved high (almost like racing) to shift smoothly. In first gear, you cannot drive leasurely through a parking lot at 5 mph...she jumps.

Also, backing off the throttle, she'll jump again.

Now running high end like a Porsche, she just sings. I just cannot zip through the Piggly Wiggly parking lot at 40 mph.

Any ideas, thoughts, etcetera?

Thanks....

Walt Mattil Birmingham, Alabama