Loan balance can be a factor in decisions, but not as important as your utilization on your credit card. Which at 3%, you have excellent utilization.
Yeah, it looks like we got the same exact mailer! Haha. Mine was also a variable APR, 15.24 to 26.24%. I almost didn't apply for it due to that, but I couldn't pass up that awesome SUB and the BCE was also a card I had been wanting for a while. I definitely was lucky to be instantly approved.
But like you said, if your spending fits the Gold better, apply for it. However, keep in mind that the Gold is a charge card that must be paid off in full every month and also has a $250 AF.