Reliability of a 1.8T VW Pat?

One of the most important things to check is the mileage. Once a 1.8T hits 70k miles the timing belt is under serious risk of snapping and if that happens the engine can sustain some very serious damage. Also the PCV valve is a common issue as well as vacuum leaks that will trigger check engines lights. As for tuning advice head to VWvortex.com you will find valuable information there. The insurance thing you would have to ask someone who either has gotten insurance or has experience with that.