I had the same problem on my 96 1.8 manual. It would cut out when revs dropped and would cut out and i would lose everything, especially power steering (great when pulling onto drive) I found that it was the Air mass flow meter. Cost me £85 quid for a brand new one. Took me about 10 mins to fit ( and im a girly) and touch wood hasnt done it since. This was bout 9 months ago. Hope this helps.
Michelle
January 2007